Government Crackdown on Illegal Fishing in Western Canada

The Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans has seized 28 illegal ghost traps, used to catch crabs and fish, from the coast of White Rock, British Columbia. The traps, which are not visible to radar and therefore pose a hazard to other vessels, were placed by unknown individuals and had no identifying markings. The DFO is reminding the public that ghost gear is a serious threat to marine life and the ecosystem, and is encouraging people to report any suspicious or illegal fishing activities, which damages the economy for legally obtained fish. Fishing industry representatives have come out in support of this initiative, as the highly lucrative Pacific Hake season is due to begin in a few weeks.