441-01854 (Fisheries)

The Government of Canada will not be reinstating the commercial leases that terminated on August 31, 2023, in the Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area. In recognition of the historic and ongoing importance of Lake Ontario commercial fishing operations in Prince Edward County, the government will continue to ensure the dock and boat launch remain safe for ongoing use and designated parking will be available to enhance access for commercial fishers.

Canadian Wildlife Service provided eight months’ notice in advance of terminating the commercial leases on August 31, 2023. Termination of the leases does not impact an individual’s ability to fish commercially in Lake Ontario. Commercial fishing is regulated by the province of Ontario and fishing equipment and practices have changed over the last four decades. The termination of the leases allows Environment and Climate Change Canada to address hazards, restore the area to its natural state, implement visitor amenities and keep all visitors and staff safe.

All the buildings on the formerly leased lots have been assessed by the Federal Heritage Review Board Office and have no heritage value nor designation. There is no such official designation as “commercial fishing village heritage area”.  Given its relatively low activity, the Port Traverse Harbour has not been designated as part of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Small Craft Harbour program. The boat launch and dock are now managed as part of the National Wildlife Area for public access.  

The purpose of national wildlife areas is wildlife conservation, research and interpretation. The Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area is a Connecting Canadians to Nature site where public visitation is encouraged. The Government of Canada will ensure safe and equitable public access to these public lands and amenities to the benefit of all Canadians.