Two recreational fishers fined $8,750 for retaining rockfish during a closed period and exceeding catch limits

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.

Port Hardy, British Columbia - 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.