Whelk Fishing Areas 11, 12, 13 and 14

Species and area

Quebec region, Gaspe-Lower-St-Lawrence Area, 2010-2012 amended fishery management plan for whelk fishing areas 11, 12, 13 and 14.

81 licences apportioned in 4 coastal areas around the Gaspe Peninsula.

Starting from the 2010 season, a total allowable catch (TAC) is implemented in areas 11, 12 and 13.

Season Dates (subject to change)

Fishing season will last a maximum of 6 months between April 1 and September 30.

Total allowable catch (TAC) and harvest sharing agreements (if applicable)

The total allowable catch (TAC) for 2011 exploited under a competitive regime in each area is as follows:

Area 11: 32 t
Area 12: 128 t
Area 13: 73 t
Area 14: N/A, competitive fishery managed only by the fishing effort.

Management measures

  • Minimum size: minimum length, 70 mm.
  • A protocol will be implemented for small whelk
  • Number of traps: 50 or 100 traps with a maximum outside measurement of 0.3 m3.

Fishery control measures:

  • Mandatory log book
  • 100% hail-in to a dockside monitoring company to declare the catches.