Do you remember the first time you went fishing? Most people do and for many, it was an experience they still recall with a sense of pleasure and wonder. Their stories of that day often reflect the excitement they felt as a trout nibbled their hook. Others recall the peace and tranquility of a spring day spent on Island waters or the taste of a delicious meal of fresh caught fish.
For many in today’s increasingly urbanized society, this experience is not as common as it once was. In order to get more people involved in this outdoor activity, the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry is offering a free Family Fishing Weekend, May 18-21. During this period, Island residents may fish without an angling or Wildlife Conservation Fund licence in streams, rivers and ponds across the province. However, while these licences are not required, fishers must still meet all angling regulations including catch limits.
Angling has been a family pastime for many generations of Islanders because it is a safe and exciting outdoor activity. The challenge of catching a trout or salmon from a fast flowing Island stream, tasting fresh cooked fish, or the simple exhilaration of a day spent in the great outdoors, makes angling the perfect family event for many people each year. The mid-May period was selected for the Family Fishing Weekend because it offers better weather than April and easier access when traveling on back roads or through the forest.
Several angling, watershed management and conservation groups sponsor special events during the weekend. On Saturday, May 19, these events include:
• Richmond/Grand River Watershed Committee’s Family Fishing Day on the Little Trout River, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Morell River Management Co-op’s Family Fishing Day at Mooney’s Pond, 9 a.m. to 12 noon.
• Kensington Police Service’s Family Fishing Day at the Rink Pond in Kensington, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Study after study shows that spending quality time with family and friends and being close to nature are important to most people. Family fishing is also an inexpensive pastime so you don't have to spend a fortune to have an experience that everyone will enjoy.
Family Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity to get everyone involved and introduce young and old to the joys of sportfishing. For more information on events near you, visit: www.gov.pe.ca/go/familyfishing2007 or call (902) 368-4683.