Thousands of Islanders will be heading to their favourite fishing holes Saturday for the opening of the 2006 angling season.
Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem said with the season opening falling on a weekend this year, it is an excellent chance for families to experience the excitement that comes with opening day – and perhaps get the younger generation hooked on fishing.
“Fishing provides a wonderful opportunity for families to escape the stresses of everyday life and spend time together, enjoying the Island’s beautiful natural environment,” he said.
The Minister added that fishing is also an inexpensive family activity. The cost of a season trout angling licence is just $10, and those under age 16 and seniors age 65 and over fish for free. Licensed anglers also require a Wildlife Conservation Fund Licence which is $13 for seniors and $20 for other adults. These funds are administered by the Wildlife Conservation Fund Committee and go directly to community-led conservation projects.
Anglers are reminded that there is one change in the regulations this season. The daily catch limit in the Wilmot River has been reduced from 10 to six fish. This is a conservation measure to allow trout populations to recover to levels seen prior to the 2002 fish kills. Details on the regulations are in the Angling Summary 2006. Copies of the summary, as well as licences, are available at Access PEI sites and from vendors across the province.
Minister Ballem noted that this year’s angling summary also includes a postage-paid, mail-in survey.
“The department is seeking input from anglers on several questions related to the management of the recreational fishery. This is their resource and we need to hear their views. So I strongly encourage anglers to complete the survey,” he said.
For further information on the spring angling season, Islanders can speak to their local conservation officer or call (902)368-4683. Information is also available online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/familyfishing.