A Bowmanville Valley fishing warning is reminding anglers that police and conservation officers are patrolling during the annual salmon run.
Durham Regional Police and Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources say officers are monitoring the Bowmanville Valley area for illegal fishing activity.
No fishing near the fish ladder
Fishing is prohibited within 120 metres upstream and downstream of the fish ladder. Police also reminded visitors that netting and snagging fish are illegal.
Anyone fishing in an approved area must follow provincial rules and carry a valid licence when required. Anglers should confirm local boundaries before casting because restrictions near fishways protect migrating fish.
The salmon run attracts visitors from Clarington and outside Durham. Increased activity also brings more enforcement attention to Bowmanville Creek and surrounding public spaces.
Earlier offences led to fines
Two North York residents caught netting salmon illegally in Bowmanville Creek in 2024 were each fined $2,500 the following year, Durham Post reported.
The current advisory did not identify new charges or provide a count of warnings. It is a preventive notice tied to active patrols during the migration period.
Visitors should use designated access areas, keep paths clear and avoid disturbing fish concentrated near the ladder. Suspected illegal fishing can be reported to provincial conservation officers.
