Evaluation of the impacts of major management changes in the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) fisheries of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, 1984-1988

A management plan was introduced in 1984 to rebuild depressed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) stocks in mainland Canada and southwestern Newfoundland. The focus of the plan was a reduction in the interception and exploitation of large salmon, primarily virgin multi-sea-winter salmon, in the commercial fisheries of Newfoundland and Labrador. The plan was evaluated based on analyses of the timing of commercial catches, proportions of large salmon in commercial catches, and levels of catch. Analyses of the impacts of changes in the commercial fisheries in river escapements in Newfoundland and Labrador were based on changes in recreational catches and counts at fishways. With respect to commerical fisheries, the timing of catches of large salmon was later, and the percentages and levels of catches of this component tended to be lower in plan years (1984–1988) than in pre-plan years (1974–1983). However, declines in percentages and catches of large salmon began prior to the initiation of the plan in 1984. Timing and levels of catches of small salmon did not change appreciably in most areas. These results were consistent with plan objectives. While the delayed season appears to have achieved results consistent with plan expectations for large salmon, it is not possible to determine the contribution of reductions in licensed gear in this regard. Although not an objective of the plan, restrictions imposed in the commercial fisheries did not result in increased escapements of grilse in either Newfoundland (except for two areas) or Labrador. No changes in escapements and in catches suggests that the overall abundance of grilse did not change between pre-plan and plan years and that reductions in licensed effort had little effect on reducing commercial catches. No increases were noted for escapements of large salmon (except for one area). Overall observations pertaining to river escapements were not consistent with plan expectations.