Forests
The Province is offering licence-free freshwater fishing this Father’s Day weekend, making it easy for everyone get out and enjoy one of British Columbia’s most popular recreational activities.
The 17th Annual Family Fishing Weekend runs June 17-19, 2016, offering special angling events in 49 communities throughout B.C. – from hatchery tours, to fishing lessons for novices, to beachside barbecues. These weekend events are being co-ordinated by the Family Fishing Society, a not-for-profit organization run by and for recreational anglers.
The free fishing is open all Canadian residents and is good for most freshwater lakes and non-tidal streams in British Columbia with the exception of 18 restricted trout and steelhead streams. The latest Freshwater Fishing Synopsis has details on these closures and other rules and regulations.
Quotes:
Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations –
“Summer for many B.C. families is about spending time together in the outdoors and Family Fishing Weekend is the perfect way to kick off the season. Whether you’re a veteran angler or never touch a rod, the Family Fishing Weekend is a great way to get out and enjoy B.C.’s natural beauty and, maybe, get hooked on fishing.”
Michele Dusterhoft, president, Family Fishing Society of B.C. –
“For many B.C. families, Family Fishing Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. A free weekend of fishing is a great way to encourage families to get outdoors and enjoy sport fishing throughout British Columbia.”
Quick Facts:
- Last year, an estimated 40,000 anglers took advantage of the free licence weekend or the Family Fishing Weekend events throughout British Columbia.
- Freshwater anglers spend $480 million every year on equipment, travel, accommodation and hospitality services.”
Learn more
- See a full listing of this weekend’s family fishing events: http://bcfamilyfishing.com/events/index.htm
- Read the latest freshwater angling rules and regulations: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/regulations/docs/1517/fishing_synopsis_2015-17.pdf
