Prince Edward Island Fishermen's Assoc.

SEEKING 3 EXPERIENCED COMMERCIAL SPRING HERRING FISHERS

DFO is seeking experienced commercial spring herring Captains to participate in spring herring experimental net project using 5 commercial-style nets each and possibly a variable mesh panel testnet in selected regions. The PEIFA are seeking 1 Captain in Region 4 (Cap-Pelé, Cape Jourimain and PEI, South Side) and 2 Captains in Region 5 (PEI, North Side) to submit as qualified Captains for the 2025 project. DFO qualifications include that each participating captain provides proof of commercial landings from at least three (3) full spring fishing seasons in the spring herring commercial fishery in the region in the past 20 years (fishers will need to provide DMP landings as proof by contacting their DMP company or DFO Local area office). This is the last year of the DFO contract and requirements cannot be changed during this period. Proof of updated marine insurance and worker’s compensation insurance are also required.

Registration Dates/Times: March 3^rd until 4:30PM, Tuesday, March 10^th 2026

Location: Farm Centre, 420 University Avenue, Suite 102, Charlottetown

How to Register: Registration can be done in person or by phone through the PEIFA office staff at 902-566-4050 any extension or Marian Bennett 902-330-3580 or by visiting the website at www.peifa.org and click the tab “Registrations & Renewal” link, then “2026 Spring Herring Project Registration’ to register.

Required Information: Captain’s Name, Phone #, FIN #, Vessel Name, VRN #, Homeport and Herring license # and selected Region (Southside 4 and/or Northside 5)

Work requirements: The gillnet samples would be completed during the weeks in the period in which the commercial spring herring fishery would usually operates. The number of samples/trips is to be determined, but commercial nets will be fished one (1) night per week with the potential for up to four (4) consecutive weeks. The DFO scientist in charge will determine the exact dates. The first week of net sets can be expected in early-mid April. Interested individuals can find details about the captain’s responsibilities, project protocol and required documentation via the website, www.peifa.org.

A draw will be held after the completion of the Registration if more persons apply than needed.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS 4:30PM, MARCH 10TH.

Note, the sampling project was developed and is regulated by the Department of Fisheries & Oceans. The PEIFA have been contracted to provide qualified Captains for the project and assist with coordination of sampling activities.

Given the reporting of new and expanded spawning events and herring schools throughout the southern Gulf in recent years, a strictly-managed and science-based commercial fishery reopening has been requested by the PEIFA and other Gulf region and Quebec Associations. This would substantially strengthen data collection for the stock assessment beyond the current limitations of this project. We continue to work with our local MPs and the DFO on this important appeal.