LNSA Newsletter Vol 2 Mar 2014

Another Take Limit Reduction

  The Lake Nipissing Stakeholders Association (LNSA) has heard rumours that the MNR intends to reduce the take limit for the sports fishery on Lake Nipissing, from the current 2 Walleye under the slot,(imposed on us on January 1, 2013) to 1 walleye above 46 cm (~18”).  We believe the MNR intends to implement this change in May 2014, that’s right, this spring.  Remember that the LNSA let everyone know the take limit reduction was coming for 2013 before the MNR released it, the rumour is reliable.  What good will a reduction to the sports fishermen do if the commercial fishery continues to be unregulated.  The take limit reduction of Jan 2013 has not been given adequate time to determine success or failure. 

We have repeatedly requested permission to increase our current stocking numbers attempting to follow the success of other districts like New York State.  We harvest 2 million Walleye eggs which require approximately 20 female Walleye.  The DNR in New York State harvests eggs from 20 000 to 30 000 females from Oneida Lake, with a total egg take of ~ 300 000 000.  Oneida Lake is ~1/4 the size of Lake Nipissing.  Every time we are told that the MNR does not believe in restocking. That being the case why does the Government operate 9 fish culture stations?

MNR News release...
May 7, 2013
   ONTARIO SUPPORTS RECREATIONAL FISHERY
Across Ontario, millions of fish from provincial fish culture stations are being loaded onto trucks, boats and aircraft for stocking into public waters to help support a recreational fishery valued at more than $2.4 billion per year.

Ontario operates nine fish culture stations in the province. Each year, these facilities produce and stock approximately 8.5 million fish into more than 1,200 lakes and rivers, including the Great Lakes. Fish stocking creates more angling opportunities, rehabilitates degraded fish populations and helps restore biodiversity. Fish are also indicators of environmental change and fish populations provide early
warning signals about potential problems in the environment.
Protecting and enhancing local biodiversity is part of the Ontario government's plan to enhance quality of life for families and ensure a strong, green economy for future generations.

We need all members to contact their respective Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP’s) and let them know that they do not agree with the direction the MNR is taking.  We are planning a public meeting in May to discuss our options (watch our website for details).  Please stay tuned for further updates. Become a member of the LNSA, we are working for you!