A decline in fish stocking may impact fishing success in Nova Scotia due to last year’s drought affecting the stocking program. The program, which primarily focuses on brook and rainbow trout, involves raising fish from three provincial hatcheries and releasing them into lakes to support native populations and promote recreational fishing tourism.
Stephen Thibodeau, a manager at the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, mentioned that the drought led to a reduction in stocking rainbow trout and a decrease in available brook trout for this spring’s stocking. The program faced challenges in water conservation, resulting in an early release of fish to cope with reduced pond capacity.
Approximately 130,000 brook trout are available for spring stocking, marking a significant drop of around 60% compared to previous years. The hatcheries typically follow a year-long cycle, starting a new batch of fry each spring, growing them into yearlings, and releasing them a year later. However, the 2026 cohort has been impacted by the early release of fish in 2025 due to the drought.
Local angler Mike Christmas expressed concerns that the reduced fish population may discourage beginner anglers. He operates near Albro Lake, a popular fishing spot known for its convenient location and abundant catches. Despite the stocking program challenges, Christmas highlighted that fishing remains an enjoyable outdoor activity regardless of catch size.
Thibodeau reassured that the drought’s effects should be limited to this year’s stock, with plans to return to normal by 2027. The department is exploring strategies to adapt to future weather challenges, aiming to maintain fishing opportunities for anglers. Despite the stocking program limitations, anglers like Victor Lewicki remain optimistic about catching fish and enjoying their time outdoors.