Barbless hooks engagement

Overview

In April 2004, Alberta placed a province-wide ban on the use of barbed hooks for angling. In September 2011, Fisheries and Oceans Canada made an amendment to the federal regulations that unintentionally removed the ban on barbed hooks in Alberta. This left anglers the ability to decide for themselves whether or not to use barbless hooks.

In January 2017, Albertans were asked about their preference with regards to the rules for the use of barbless hooks.

Survey results overview

The survey results were mixed:

• 19.7% preferred barbed hooks only be banned in waters with special management objectives.
• 34.2% preferred barbed hooks be banned in all waters.
• 46.1% preferred the choice about the use of barbed or barbless hooks be left to the person fishing.

Options are being evaluated in light of the survey results.

Life cycle

Survey opens: January 11, 2017

Survey closes: February 14, 2017

Survey results released: March 21, 2017

Related links

Fish conservation and management strategy