High-Capacity Fishing Requirements
What is high-capacity fishing?
High–capacity fishing is defined as a vessel licensed to fish in a commercial fishery or a vessel fishing with gear commonly used when commercial fishing. Example: gillnet, sein net, hydraulic prawn or crab trap puller.
These fishing methods can make a large impact on fish populations very quickly and so there are extra precautions to ensure our resources are properly cared for and kept in balance.
If you plan to harvest fish using gillnets, seine nets or other high-capacity fishing methods, there are specific rules you must follow to stay within Huu-ay-aht Treaty Rights and Fisheries Regulations. These rules are in place to ensure safe, respectful, and sustainable harvesting in Huu-ay-aht waters.
1. Obtain a Harvest Card
The Harvest Card gives Huu-ay-aht Citizens the right to harvest traditional foods—like fish, shellfish, plants and game—for personal and family use, under Maa-nulth Treaty rights. Click here to learn how to apply for a harvest card.
2. Get a High-Capacity Fishing Permit
Before fishing with gillnet or seine gear, you must apply for a High-Capacity Fishing Permit through the Huu-ay-aht Lands and Resources Department. You can do this by contacting HFN Natural Resource Manager at 250-728-3414 or email harvest@huuayaht.org .
3. Notify Before High-Capacity Fishing (Hail in and out)
You are required to notify Huu-ay-aht First Nations before each time you go out to gillnet. This helps us keep track of activity on the water and supports community safety.
4. Obtain and fly the Huu-ay-aht Harvest Flag
Your vessel must fly the designated Huu-ay-aht Harvest Flag while actively fishing. This identifies you as a legal harvester under Huu-ay-aht Treaty rights. Flags can be obtained from Huu-ay-aht Lands & Natural Resources Team.
5. Report your catch
Weekly catch reports are a condition of high-capacity fishing.
6. No Selling of Harvested Fish
All fish and other species harvested under this right are for personal and family use only. Selling your catch is not allowed under this permit.
Need a Permit or Have Questions?
📞 Call: 250-728-3414 📧 Email: harvest@huuayaht.org
By following these steps, you help protect our resources and honour Huu-ay-aht’s responsibility to care for the land and sea.
ʔiisaak – ʔuuʔałuk – hišuk ma c̕awak