Anglers are being told they can't take fish from one of Alberta's most popular rivers while the government studies the effects of a major pipeline spill.
The catch-and-release restriction is on the Red Deer River where a Plains Midstream pipeline leaked nearly half a million litres of oil in June.
Alberta Environment spokesman Dave Ealey says the restriction will last for at least the rest of this year's season and may continue into next year.
Ealey says the restriction is intended to help scientists determine whether the spill has affected fish populations.
He says there are concerns the spill may have left fewer younger fish in the river.
The Red Deer is a popular river for both Albertan and foreign anglers, who come to its waters for sport fish such as mountain whitefish and brown trout.