MSA Hatchery

Hatchery manager Mark Hambrook emphasized that the role of the hatchery is “simply to help preserve and conserve the salmon stocks. We push for the conservation of Atlantic Salmon, and yet we also want anglers to be able to enjoy the sport of angling and so we strongly urge every angler to carefully return all salmon back to the river so they can spawn,” said Hambrook. He has often referred to the work of the hatchery as “An insurance policy for the salmon stocks in the Miramichi.”

Hambrook said this season is unfolding as predicted. “Last year we had a great year in terms of grilse return, and we felt that this year we would have a big salmon return and this has proven to be true.”

So the next time you have a few minutes to spare, drop into the hatchery and take a tour. It will give you an even greater appreciation of the fish we loved to angle for, as well as the work that the MSA does on our behalf. Try to attend some of their dinner/.auctions in your area, and support the MSA with a membership which is $40.00 (or $10.00 for those who make their living working in angling such as guides and camp owners). The money goes to research and salmon conservation. As well, there is a new Native Fishing Village being constructed at the hatchery, so visit and bring friends and relatives. Drop in to the trout ponds which have 20,000 fish and take the kids or grand-kids. What better way to get them into the sport of angling as they catch the pay-per-pound trout for your supper.

There have been some grumbling by some anglers about having to put a salmon back, but by putting them back, we are guaranteeing that the sport we love will be there for our kids and grandkids. These restrictions, along with the help of our fish hatchery, have gradually brought our resource back to a reasonably safe level, compared to what it was. Keeping a salmon is a step backwards, and if people persist in taking away our spawning stock, we’ll soon be grumbling about “no fish”.

In terms of releasing salmon, make sure you do it properly, especially as the water temperature increases. Do NOT play a salmon for a long time. Yes, we want the photo, but given the choice, it is better to break off the leader or lose the fish than play it too long and have it go belly-up.

Although most know how to revive a salmon, it is worth mentioning again. Move it gently back and forth making sure its nose is pointing UP-RIVER, so oxygen can get to its gills. Holding it down river is drowning it. I actually came across an angler doing it backwards a few years ago.

As well, when reviving the fish, make sure it is rested enough before you release it. Sometimes it will swim away immediately, but there are times when it will turn on its side. Some use the rule of thumb that “If you can hold it, it’s not ready.” A big salmon may jerk free on the first try, but if it doesn’t, give it more time. It will let you know when it is ready.

Have the camera ready for the photo BEFORE the fish is lifted from the water. Then make it quick and get it back. If possible, do not drag the fish ashore over the rocks to remove the hook as this can damage internal organs and scrape off protective scales. Try to keep it in the water if possible.