Updates for Anglers in Region 6: Skeena

Important Notice for anglers in the Skeena River watershed—2025–26 season

On May 16, 2025, the Gitxsan First Nation issued a press release about their fishing ban for the
upcoming 2025 season across their traditional territory.

The B.C. government shares the Gitxsan First Nation's interest and concern regarding salmon
and steelhead conservation and drought management in the Skeena River watershed.
Recreational fishing licences for all fishing in freshwater are authorized by the Province of
British Columbia. The Province regulates the freshwater fishery, including steelhead, trout, and
char. Canada (DFO) regulates the fishery for salmon.

Until further notice, angling licences sold by the Province for freshwater species remain valid.
Any changes or updates will be posted on the Freshwater Fishing Regulation webpage in Angler
Updates and in the Region 6 In-Season Regulation Changes.

Fishery management decisions are made on the best available science, with conservation and
sustainability being the top priority, followed by First Nations' food, social and ceremonial
needs, then recreational opportunities. Based on the best available science at this point in the
season, steelhead, trout and char in the Skeena watershed can support recreational fishing as
per management measures in the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis.

Staff from the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship are working with the Gitxsan
on technical fish management tables. The ministry continues to work with the Gitxsan Laxyip
Management Office to implement the Gitxsan Watershed Strategic Engagement Agreement.
Please respect First Nations rights and perspectives and seek permission before crossing Indian
Reserve lands. For reference, a map of Gitxsan traditional territory can be found at
https://native-land.ca/listings/territories/gitxsan. If anglers experience conflict, please avoid
confrontation. Public safety is priority and if safety concerns exist, please call the RC