Snow crab fishery delayed by ice in Gulf of St. Lawrence

Snow crab season expected to start on May 1

CBC News Posted: Apr 18, 2014 12:04 PM AT Last Updated: Apr 18, 2014 12:04 PM AT

 

Snow crab fishermen on P.E.I. are anxious to get out on the water since ice conditions have delayed the season.

The season can open as early as April 15, but a committee made up of Department of Fisheries and Oceans and industry representatives has delayed it this year because of sea ice conditions in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Carter Hutt, president of the P.E.I. Snow Crab Association, said conditions are improving.

“Out in the Gulf has actually been changing pretty good but they figured that the harbours and the bays were going to be a problem. There has been a big change this week. There are actually boats in the water now and the harbours and bays are opening up,” he said.

Hutt said another conference call between DFO and the industry is scheduled for April 25. He now expects the opening day will be May 1.

There are nearly 30 snow crab fishermen on P.E.I.