Black Bay (Lake Superior) Fisheries Management Plan

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) manages recreational fisheries in Ontario using an adaptive approach, with Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) serving as the primary tool for setting management direction for fisheries resources. Planning focuses on keeping fisheries sustainable while clearly outlining how resources will be shared in the area to support social, cultural and economic benefits.

Advisory Councils and Working Groups play a critical role assisting in the development and evaluation of fisheries management actions. This ensures that FMPs reflect a shared vision and incorporate meaningful public input and support.

The purpose of this FMP plan is to guide the responsible management of fisheries resources within Black Bay. The plan includes long-term goals and objectives and supporting management actions that seek to improve the status of the Black Bay fish community.

As a result of the planning process, it is anticipated that several regulatory changes may be made that will be reflected in Ontario Fishing Regulations. Results and information collected from fisheries independent surveys will be used to determine if goals, objectives, and targets established in the plan are being met. The following proposed regulatory changes are being proposed:

Northern Pike - Season: Open all year. Limits: S-2 and C-1; S: Not more than one greater than 70cm (27.6") and none greater than 90cm (35.4"). C: none over 90cm (35.4”).

Chinook Salmon – Were discussed and there was expressed interest in regulatory changes at a lakewide (FMZ 9) scope.

Walleye - Open to recreational fishing. Season: July 1^st to December 31^st (No ice fishing season). Limits: S-2, C-1, must be between 40-50.8 cm  (16”-20”).

Regulatory impact analysis

The Black Bay Fisheries Management Plan is exempt from the requirements of Modernizing Ontario for People and Businesses Act as the intent/direction in the FMP primarily focus on recreational angling (i.e. not commercial fishers). Furthermore, the FMP does not require new rules to businesses. As such there are no direct costs on tourist operators or fishing resorts. The FMP does not have a direct impact on a regulated entity including business, trade, occupation, etc. carried out for profit or not for profit.