Despite the stormy weather in the forecast today, thousands of Islanders will be taking part in a rite of springtime this weekend as the 2007 angling season opens Sunday.
Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem said a weekend opening usually means a busy day on Island streams and rivers. It provides an excellent chance for the entire family to get out and enjoy the beauty of the Island’s natural environment, he added.
“With more and people living in cities and towns today, we are not as connected to our environment as previous generations,” the Minister said. “Angling is a fun and inexpensive way for Islanders of all ages to reconnect with nature.”
Licences for the 2007 angling season are on sale at Access PEI offices and retail outlets across the Island. The cost of a season trout angling licence is just $10 and those age 65 and older can receive a courtesy licence at no cost. Licensed anglers are also required to purchase a Wildlife Conservation Fund Licence which is $13 for seniors and $20 for other adults. Funds from this licence go directly to community-led conservation projects. Those under age 16 do not require any licence to fish.
Minister Ballem noted the department is improving service to Islanders this year with a new combination licence for those who participate in both the angling and hunting seasons. This will save time and reduce paperwork for those who enjoy both these outdoor activities.
Details on the angling regulations are included in the 2007 Angling Summary. The summary also includes the results of last year’s mail-in survey on the recreational fishery. The new Public Land Atlas is another excellent resource for anglers who are looking for places to access streams and rivers. The atlas identifies public lands across the province that are open to uses such as fishing, hunting, and other outdoor recreation. It is available online at www.gov.pe.ca/gis/ or copies can be purchased for $30 + GST at the Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division and Access PEI offices.
Those planning to take part in opening day are reminded that ponds in some areas of the province may still have ice cover. Please exercise caution when fishing. For further information on the 2007 angling season, Islanders can contact their local conservation officer or call the Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division at (902) 368-4683. Information is also available online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/familyfishing.