Very little rain in September and October has left the Capilano River at sustained low levels. Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) People and our Ta na wa Yúus ta Stitúyntsam̓ (Squamish Nation Rights & Title) Fish Guardian staff have observed that the low water is making it difficult for salmon to move up the river.
In response, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) has enforced a full closure of the river to Squamish Nation fishing. The closure was in effect from sunset (7 p.m.) on Tuesday, October 13, to sunrise (7 a.m.) on Friday, October 16. Fisheries and Oceans Canada also asked all anglers to refrain from fishing during the same period.
After the full closure ends, the river will remain closed to Squamish Nation fishing nightly from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. for the rest of the season.
During the full river closure, Squamish Nation, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the Capilano Hatchery worked together to temporarily increase river flows and open the weir. All these measures give salmon the best chance to migrate through the river system and reach the hatchery. Similar efforts in past years have helped thousands of fish reach their spawning grounds. If targets are met going forward, closures could be rescinded.
We thank you for respecting the closures and helping to protect these important salmon.