In an effort to protect dwindling salmon populations, the Gitxsan Hereditary Chiefs have announced an immediate closure of all recreational fisheries on the Skeena River for the 2019 season.
This means that anyone attempting to fish on the river, regardless of whether or not they have acquired a license or permit, will be considered trespassing by the Gitxsan Government.
During the 2018 season, the DFO opened the river to recreational fishers, a decision which the Gitxsan say was not supported by any scientific or technical data.
A crisis management team has been established to advise the Gitxsan Government and help them limit the effects of overfishing in the River.
