Courtenay, British Columbia - Illegal shellfish harvesting threatens the sustainability of fisheries resources and undermines conservation efforts. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) fishery officers play a critical role in protecting Canada's fisheries through enforcement, education, monitoring, and compliance activities.
DFO enforcement action against four individuals involved in illegal shellfish harvesting in Deep Bay, British Columbia (B.C.), concluded on July 7, 2026, in Courtenay Provincial Court. Four individuals were convicted and fined a combined total of $18,000 for multiple violations of the Fisheries Act, the Fishery (General) Regulations, and the British Columbia Sport Fishing Regulations. Xiaohua (Jessica) Liu was convicted of making a false or misleading statement and unlawful possession of oysters and was fined $4,500.
Three other people had previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced in Vancouver Provincial Court on May 23, 2024: Ya Chung Lao was fined $7,000 and prohibited from fishing for one-year fishing for obstruction and unlawful possession; Yilai Zhu was fined $3,500 for fishing without a licence and unlawful possession; while Chun Shui Tu was fined $3,000 for the same offences.
DFO reminds all recreational and commercial shellfish harvesters to review current regulations before harvesting. Following licensing requirements, catch and possession limits, species restrictions, and area closures helps protect fish and shellfish populations and supports sustainable fisheries for future generations.
