This case involved a charge under s. 33(2) of the Fishery (General) Regulations of failing to “forthwith” return incidentally caught fish. The fish in this case, were 12 dead salmon incidentally caught in a herring net set to catch bait for lobster traps. Upon being caught on the grounds with a bag containing 12 salmon, the accused gave evidence that …
Full Summary
These summaries of Fisheries law cases were prepared by retired lawyer Brad Caldwell.
Readers are cautioned this material is not up to date and are urged to consult CanLii for updated cases.
R v. Harris, [2001 N.J. No. 64 (Nfld. Prov. Ct.)
This case involved charges against a ground fish cod fisherman for continuing to direct for skate or monkfish after landing catches in excess of his by-catch allowance. The issue was whether or not he had a defence of reasonable and honest mistake of fact. The evidence was that although the accused had been fishing for 10 years, this was the …
Full SummaryR v. Haines et al., Prov. Ct. File No. 22340/22576C
This case involved charges against of what is commonly called dual fishing. That is, fishing at the same time under the authority of both a commercial halibut licence and an aboriginal food fishing licence. Up until 1999, commercial by-catch of fish in excess of that allowed, could be relinquished to the Crown without penalty. At the same time, commercial aboriginal …
Full Summary