New and experienced anglers alike can cast their lines for free this Father's Day weekend, as part of the 14th Annual Free Family Fishing weekend.

This year's celebration runs from June 14 to 16, and allows Canadian families to fish for free in most freshwater lakes and non-tidal streams anywhere in B.C. on all three days. With 49 different events planned in communities throughout the province, families have a wonderful opportunity to learn how to fish and explore B.C.'s beautiful recreation sites.

These events are supported by the Family Fishing Weekend Society, which provides financial assistance and materials, including fishing gear. The Freshwater Fisheries Society stocks 800 lakes and streams with eight million fish each year. The Habitat Conservation Trust Fund has also contributed funding to support Family Fishing Weekend. Throughout the province, hundreds of knowledgeable volunteers will share their advice and passion for fishing with all who attend.

Families planning to fish at a location outside of a sponsored event listed on the Family Fishing Society of BC's website are advised that people fishing for species requiring a conservation surcharge stamp or on classified waters will still need to purchase these supplementary licences. For information on these few exceptions, please consult pages 7-8 of the 2013-15 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis, available online at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/regulations/

Quotes:

Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations -

"British Columbia is fortunate to have amazing fishing throughout the province, and the free Family Fishing Weekend is a great way to introduce newcomers to the experience. If you've always wanted to try fishing out, here's your opportunity."

Mary Polak, Minister of Environment -

"This weekend is an excellent opportunity for families to get hooked on fishing or rekindle a favourite pastime. Be sure to look out for BC Parks' free Learn to Fish program this summer."

Owen Bird, executive director, Family Fishing Society of BC -

"At the heart of Family Fishing Weekend are the volunteers who give their time and energy at events around the province. These are the people who make this event such a success every year and ensure that their love of fishing and appreciation of our abundant aquatic and marine resources is passed on to future generations."

Quick Facts:

• An estimated 25,000 people take advantage of the free Family Fishing Weekend.

• Freshwater anglers spend $480 million every year on equipment, travel, accommodation and hospitality services, supporting 7,500 direct jobs.

• There are recreation sites on or near 800 stocked lakes that that support a diversity of angling opportunities.

• The Family Fishing Society of BC is managed by the angling community and was incorporated as a non-profit society in 2002.

• The Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. delivers the Learn to Fish program free to youth and their families as well as organized groups of all ages and abilities.

Learn More:

For more details and a list of communities where family fishing events are being held, visit: www.bcfamilyfishing.com

Visit the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC online at: www.gofishbc.com or www.discoverfishingbc.ca for more information about fishing opportunities in B.C., including the Learn to Fish program.

For information on fishing licences, visit: www.fishing.gov.bc.ca

For more information about the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, visit: www.hctf.ca

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261