The Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment is hoping more Island families will get hooked on fishing through a "free" fishing promotion the Victoria Day weekend.
Minister Chester Gillan has announced May 18-21 will be designated Family Fishing Weekend. No licences will be required to drop a fishing line in the many streams and ponds across the province.
"This is a perfect opportunity for anyone who has never fished before to get out and try their hand at the sport, and for former anglers to rekindle their interest," the minister said. "Many adults remember the fun of going fishing as a child. This is a chance for them to carry on the tradition and create those wonderful memories for their children."
As part of Family Fishing Weekend, the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment is partnering with several groups to host youth fishing derbies across the province on Saturday, May 19.
In Queens County, the Central Queens Wildlife Federation is hosting a derby at Pondside Park in Stratford; while the Hyde Creek Environmental Committee is hosting an event at Hyde Creek Pond in Cornwall. Both ponds have been stocked with trout to enhance the events.
At Pondside Park, the derby gets underway at 8 am and runs until 1 pm. At Hyde Creek, participants are invited to arrive at 8:30 am for a short orientation session where they will learn about fish life and pick up some fishing tips. That event also wraps up at 1 pm.
In Prince County, the Prince County Fly Fishers Federation will host a youth fishing derby at Marchbank's Pond on the Wilmot River, 9 am to 1 pm; and in Kings County, the Morell River Management Co-op will host a derby at Mooney's Pond Interpretive Centre, 8 am to 12 noon. That area has also been stocked with trout.
The fishing derbies are open to youth age 15 and under. Pop and hotdogs will be provided free of charge to young fishers at all four locations.
Minister Gillan said he hopes youth who take part in the derbies and families who take advantage of the "free" fishing weekend will see what they've been missing and make fishing a part of their outdoor activities this summer.
"Prince Edward Island boasts some of the best angling in some of the most beautiful natural areas you will find anywhere. I believe when Islanders experience all that fishing has to offer, they will indeed be hooked," he said.
The Minister noted the recreational fishery has a significant impact on the provincial economy, generating an estimated $4 million to $6 million in spending each year on items such as equipment, food and travel. Minister Gillan added the other major benefit of having a strong recreational fishery is the protection of the environment.
"When people spend time outdoors, they gain a greater appreciation of nature and greater awareness of the role they can play in protecting our natural resources," he said.
The Family Fishing Weekend is in effect from Friday, May 18, to Monday evening, May 21. While licences are not required, anglers are reminded they must observe all regulations including catch limits.
If first-time anglers are looking for direction, the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment has maps available showing fishing locations. For further information on Family Fishing Weekend or the youth fishing derbies, contact the Department at 368-5000.