Quebec Region, Îles-de-la-Madeleine area, scallop fishing in area 20

Species and region

Quebec Region, Îles-de-la-Madeleine area, scallop fishing in area 20.
Scallop Fishing Area 20 is a coastal zone surrounding the Îles-de-la-Madeleine. 23 core fish harvesters hold a license valid for area 20.

Dates of season (subject to change)

Fishing will be permitted in traditional sub-areas (20A, 20B & 20C) from March 26 to July 31, 2012.

In Sub-area 20F, the fishing season will begin on March 26 and end on October 31, 2012 with possible extension in this area upon request from industry.

Total Allowable Catches and Sharing Arrangements (if applicable)

Fishing effort in traditional sub-area 20A is controlled by the number of fishing days. The total authorized in 2012 will be 322 fishing days equally distributed between the 23 license holders. These fishing days are not transferable. In order to cover exceptional situations, among the 14 fishing days authorised, a maximum of three (3) fishing days may be divided into six (6) half fishing days.

In sub-area 20B (Brion Island), 20C (East Bank) and 20F (outside traditional sub-areas), the number of fishing days will not be limited.

Management Measures

Minimum catch size: 95 mm and not more than 31 meats for 500 g.
Fishing gear: Scallop drag, the total width of the baskets not exceeding 24 feet. The minimum size of the drag rings is 3¼ inches.
Monitoring measures: Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) with a signal every 30 minutes. It is mandatory to fill out the logbook prior to arrival at the wharf; 100% hail in and sporadic dockside monitoring.
Other: Fishing is authorised from 5:00 h to 21:00 h, Monday to Saturday. The sub-area 20E (refuge zone) remains closed to fishing.

Other information

Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Îles-de-la-Madeleine area office
418-986-2095