Recreational cod fishery begins this weekend

The first round of the recreational cod fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador begins Saturday. 

Also known as the food fishery, the summer season runs until Aug. 9.

The fall fishery is set to begin on Sept. 19 and run until Sept. 27.

Fishing areas GH, 2J3KL, 3Ps, 3Pn, and 4R are open, while fishing is not permitted in the Eastport and Gilbert Bay Marine Protected Areas, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans said. 

The same catch rules apply as in previous years, with participants limited to catch five fish per day each. 

The maximum per boat when three or more people are fishing is 15 fish.

DFO is asking fishers to inspect their catch closely for pink or yellow tags, located at the back of the fish.

"The tags are uniquely numbered and have a DFO address and reward value ($10 or $100) printed on them. Participants should return the tag, along with recapture information, and their mailing address, to claim the tag reward," a DFO statement said.