Angling Ethics

Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP)

The unethical angler is a threat to our fisheries resources and outdoor recreation. If you observe a violation of any of the regulations in the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis, record your observations promptly in note form and take photographs if possible. Record details of the violation; date and time; vehicle, vessel or aircraft licence number and a physical description of the violator(s).

To report your observations, dial the (RAPP) number listed below. Your complaint will be registered and directed to the right office for action.

For all fish other than salmon:1-877-952-RAPP (7277)

For salmon:1-800-465-4336

Rewards

The BC Wildlife Federation pays rewards up to $2000 for information leading to the conviction of persons who have:

• violated laws related to the protection of fish, wildlife, or the environment, or
• damaged the property of comanies or individuals who provide access to hunters and anglers.

Penalties for Breaking Fishing Laws

The penalty for fishing offences against the Fisheries Act is a fine of up to $100,000, a prison term of up to 12 months, or both. If an enforcement officer finds any fish illegally caught or held, or any equipment, vehicle, vessel or other item used in the commission of an offence, the officer may seize them without a warrant. Depending on the severity of the offence, you may be issued a fine by ticket or required to attend court.

Report - Don't Support Illegal Guiding

Anyone who assists or transports anglers for compensation or reward without the proper licence commits an offence. If you use the services of an illegal guide, you may be convicted as well. If you are hiring a guide, you can be certain that person is licenced by asking to see the guide’s licence or checking with the local Ministry of Environment office.

Notice to Violators (Licence Suspensions & Prohibitions)

Did you know? Under Section 24 of the Wildlife Act, the Director of the Fish & Wildlife Branch, Ministry of Environment, may prohibit you from holding a hunting and/or fishing licence for a specified period (up to a 30-year prohibition). The period will depend on the severity of your offence and is independent of any fine of suspension which may be imposed by a court of law upon your conviction for fish or wildlife offences. It pays to become familiar with the fish and wildlife regulations and to abide by them.