Today marks the start of the 15th annual Family Fishing Weekend. In addition to community events taking place throughout the province, BC residents are able to fish the province’s fresh and tidal waters licence-free from June 13-15th.
Hosted by The Family Fishing Society of BC and local groups of volunteers, Family Fishing Weekend events feature how-to sessions for beginners that include information on equipment, casting, identifying local fish species and conservation. Loner rods, reels and tackle are provided for those who do not have their own gear.
“These events offer a great opportunity to learn about how to fish in a fun and supported environment,” Wayne Saito, President, Family Fishing Society of BC. “The hundreds of volunteers who organize and participate in these events are passionate about fishing and even more passionate about sharing their love of the sport. They are keen to share what makes fishing such a great pastime.”
HCTF has been a long-time supporter of Family Fishing Weekend, providing over $380,000 since 2001. Since then, the program has grown from half a dozen events to nearly fifty across the province, with last year’s festivities attracting a record 17,000 participants.
A complete list of event locations and descriptions can be found at www.bcfamilyfishing.com. For beginner anglers, Family Fishing Weekend sponsors FFSBC have a great learn-to-fish program guide available for download on their website. Before heading out, be sure to familiarize yourself with the angling regulations for your region:
- For freshwater angling regulations, visit http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/regulations/
- For tidal (saltwater) angling regulations, visit http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/index-eng.html
Happy Father’s Day, and happy fishing!
