The Babine River, from the Babine fence to its confluence with the Nilkitkwa River, has been closed to recreational fishing to safeguard sockeye salmon in response to unusually warm and low water conditions.

The Aug. 3 closure is part of the Babine River Collaborative Management Plan (BRCMP), a joint effort between Lake Babine Nation and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) aimed at adapting management strategies to environmental changes.

The BRCMP outlines adjustments to recreational fishing regulations based on real-time conditions in the Babine River, including water levels and temperature. The plan is designed to protect sockeye salmon holding below the Babine fence during periods of environmental stress, DFO said in an email statement. 

Current observations show sockeye salmon in small numbers in various locations along the Fulton River, with some evidence of spawning activity, 

DFO said they are in daily discussions with the Babine fence staff are in daily discussions to monitor these conditions and provide updates on necessary adjustments to the fishing regulations.

Once sockeye salmon migrate to Babine Lake, cooler waters there reduce pre-spawn mortality, providing a more favourable environment for the fish, the DFO added.

Meanwhile, recreational fishing on Babine Lake continues, focusing on enhanced hatchery Fulton and Pinkut salmon stocks.