Have Your Say on the Future of Salmon & Recreational Fishing in B.C.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada is proposing significant changes to the Salmon Allocation Policy that could reduce public access to salmon and impact recreational fishing opportunities across British Columbia. These community town halls are your chance to hear what’s being proposed, understand how it could affect anglers, local economies, and conservation, and learn how to take action.
B.C. Wildlife Federation is hosting in-person town halls across B.C. to share information, answer questions, and help anglers engage directly with decision-makers.
At each town hall, you’ll learn:
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What changes are being proposed to the Salmon Allocation Policy
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How those changes could affect recreational fishing and public access
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Why science-based, balanced policy matters for conservation
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How anglers can effectively engage their MPs and DFO
Read more about the Salmon Allocation Policy: Take Action Now Before Your Rights are Extinguished Forever
Upcoming Town Halls
Browse upcoming town halls across B.C., listed below by date.
Chilliwack - February 17, 2026
Location: Yarrow Community Centre, 4670 Community St., Chilliwack
Times: 7:00PM – 9:00PM
Capacity: 200
Pitt Meadows - February 18, 2026
Mission - February 19, 2026
Location: Mission and District Rod and Gun Club, 10969 Dewdney Truck Rd., Mission
Times: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Capacity: 125
North Vancouver - February 24, 2026
Langley - February 25, 2026
Coquitlam - February 26, 2026
More Town Halls Coming Soon
This is just the first round of town halls. We’re planning additional sessions across the province, so stay tuned for dates and locations near you.
Meet the Speakers
Our town halls feature local experts, community leaders, and BCWF representatives who are ready to answer your questions and share insights on salmon management, conservation, and public access. Learn from those shaping the future of B.C.’s waterways.
Jesse Zeman
BCWF Executive Director Jesse Zeman leads the conversation at our town halls, sharing his deep knowledge of salmon conservation, public access, and sustainable fisheries management. He’ll provide insights, answer questions, and highlight the actions needed to protect B.C.’s waterways for future generations.
Jason Tonelli
Jason Tonelli is a lifelong angler, guide, and fishing advocate with decades of experience on B.C.’s rivers, lakes, and coast. From his early days on the Nickomekl River to guiding trips across the province and contributing to radio and TV fishing programs, Jason brings firsthand knowledge of salmon, steelhead, and trout fisheries. He also serves the community through leadership roles with the Sport Fishing Institute of BC and the Lower Mainland Sportfish Advisory Board, sharing his expertise and passion for sustainable angling with anglers of all levels.
Jason will be joining us at the town halls on February 25 and 26.
Fred Helmer
Fred Helmer, founder of Fred’s Custom Tackle, grew up fishing the Fraser, Chilliwack, and Vedder rivers with his father and grandfather. His lifelong passion for the recreational fishery has grown into a career showcasing his retail and guiding operation, attracting anglers from across the globe. Fred is deeply committed to conservation and has actively supported initiatives that ensure fishing opportunities for future generations. In 2025, he was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his outstanding contribution and service to the community and the angling world.
Fred will be joining us at the town halls on February 17, 18, and 19.
Promotional Materials
Stand Up for Salmon & Public Fishing Access
These town halls are part of BCWF’s ongoing work to protect science-based fisheries management and the public’s right to fish. Thank you for being part of the conservation community.
Support conservation efforts across British Columbia: Donate Today
Supporters
These organizations help make our town halls possible, supporting opportunities for B.C. communities to come together, learn, and share their voices on salmon conservation and public access.
