HALIFAX – Tensions have risen in the fishing community as two commercial fishers, harvesting baby eels, were compelled to cease their operations due to the arrival of a large group of Indigenous fishers in the Hubbards River area. The Indigenous group, reportedly affiliated with the Sipekne’katik First Nation, set up nets in the river as part of a protest against new federal regulations surrounding eel fishing quotas.

Suzy Edwards, an employee with Atlantic Elver Fishery, highlighted that one of the Indigenous fishers expressed their discontent with the federal government's newly imposed quota system, which allocates fishing rights based on community populations. In this new framework, half of the total allowed catch of 9,950 kilograms distributed to established commercial license holders will be transitioned to First Nations without any form of compensation.

Edwards and her fishing partner, Alan MacHardy, shared their concerns about the situation. They affirmed that their company holds a federal license to operate on Hubbards River but felt it was necessary to remain in their truck rather than engage in fishing when faced with the Indigenous group’s arrival. Their decision was exacerbated by the absence of federal enforcement officials, leaving them feeling vulnerable and unsure about proceeding with their fishing activities.

Further complicating the scenario, Chief Bob Gloade of Millbrook First Nation recently communicated with the federal Fisheries Department, indicating that Sipekne’katik First Nation has taken steps to assert their sovereignty over fishing rights. Together with Millbrook, they are developing their own elver fishing plans, which encompass the right to select fishing locations as they see fit.

The situation underscores the ongoing struggles between Indigenous and non-Indigenous fishers over resource management and jurisdictional authority. The newly instituted quota system has sparked significant controversy, particularly as it affects the livelihoods of both commercial fishers and Indigenous communities, who have long-standing cultural and economic ties to these waters.

Chief Michelle Glasgow of Sipekne’katik First Nation has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the unfolding situation. This incident highlights the critical need for dialogue and negotiation between the various stakeholders involved in the fishing industry, especially as it pertains to the enforcement of federally regulated fishing limits that disproportionately impact certain communities.

This report was published by The Canadian Press on March 31, 2025.