Biologist offer insight into challenges and pluses to fishing sanctuary on Ganaraska River

Nearly 30,000 Chinook Salmon migrate through the lower Ganaraska River in Port Hope to spawn upstream. It is one of the largest in Ontario. This magnificent display of nature attracts tourists and anglers from far and wide. However, the stretch from Corbett’s Dam to the mouth of the river is a hotbed of controversy. The shallow waters and pools expose fish to unscrupulous people who illegally snag or net fish. Plus, there are other impacts on the fish, the river, and the town. For some residents, enough was enough. For years, complaints were made. Efforts to remedy the situation failed. A petition was presented to town council calling for a ban. Yet, for dedicated anglers, it meant a potential loss of a thriving fishery to those who acted responsibly. This fall, the Ontario government designated a stretch of the Ganaraska River as a fishing sanctuary. In this interview, you will hear all about what that means for the residents, anglers, and, especially, the fish. You decide if it is the right thing to do.