Recreational cod fishery begins this weekend

The first roundof the recreational cod fisheryin Newfoundland and Labrador begins Saturday.

Also known as the food fishery, the summer seasonruns untilAug. 9.

The fall fishery is set to begin onSept. 19 and run until Sept.27.

Fishing areasGH, 2J3KL, 3Ps, 3Pn, and 4R are open, while fishing is not permitted in the Eastport and Gilbert Bay Marine Protected Areas, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans said.

The same catch rules apply as in previous years, with participantslimited to catch five fish per day each.

The maximum per boat when three or more people are fishing is 15 fish.

DFO is asking fishers to inspect their catch closely for pink or yellow tags, located at the back of the fish.

"The tags are uniquely numbered and have a DFO addressand reward value ($10 or $100) printed on them. Participants should returnthe tag, along with recapture information, and their mailing address, toclaim the tag reward," a DFO statement said.