PORT HARDY, BC, Oct. 19, 2026 /CNW/ -- There are over 35 species of rockfish along the coast of British Columbia (BC) and some live for over 100 years. Rockfish grow and reproduce slowly and many BC rockfish species are in decline and of conservation concern. Fisheries closures for these and other species are a critical conservation tool that help protect vulnerable fish populations and support sustainable fisheries for future generations.

A tip from the public helped lead to convictions and fines totalling $8,750 for illegal fishing near Port Hardy, B.C. On July 29, 2026, in Port Hardy Provincial Court, Xiao Dong Liu was convicted of exceeding the daily fish quota and fishing during a closed period and was fined $4,500. His co-accused, Yongjie Li, was convicted of the same offences, as well as failing to produce a licence, and was fined $4,250. The charges followed a complaint to the Observe, Record and Report (ORR) line on March 12, 2025, about suspected illegal fishing near the shoreline and at a marina in Hardy Bay.

Seasonal fishing closures help protect vulnerable fish populations when they are most at risk and support healthy, sustainable fisheries for generations to come. Fishing during a closed period can undermine these conservation efforts and place added pressure on fish stocks. DFO reminds all recreational fishers to check and follow current regulations, including quotas, retention limits and area closures, before heading out on the water.

DFO fishery officers play a critical role in protecting Canada's fisheries through enforcement, education, monitoring, and compliance activities. DFO is committed to protecting and conserving marine resources and enforcing the Fisheries Act. Anyone with information about suspected fisheries violations is encouraged to contact DFO Pacific Region's toll-free violation reporting line at 1-800-465-4336, or email DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

Quick Facts

• At the time of the offence in March 2025, the retention of rockfish and lingcod in the area was closed until May 1, 2025.
• Fishery officers seized the catch, which included nine Quillback Rockfish, two Yellowtail Rockfish, one Canary Rockfish, one Greenstriped Rockfish, two Greenling, one Lingcod and five Rock Sole. The Court also ordered the forfeiture of the illegally retained fish.
• Public reporting plays an important role in protecting fisheries resources. Information provided through DFO's Observe, Record, Report line helps fishery officers identify and investigate suspected violations.

Associated Links:

• About rockfish and Rockfish Conservation Areas | Pacific Region | Fisheries and Oceans Canada
• What to report if you see a potential violation - Observe, Record, Report
• What does a fishery officer do 

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SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada