Environment and Energy Minister Jamie Ballem is encouraging Islanders to celebrate National Fishing Week at their favourite fishing hole.
The week of July 3-11 is designated National Fishing Week in Canada. Part of a national awareness campaign aimed at encouraging Canadians of all ages to take up sport fishing, this special week is set aside to celebrate recreational fishing as an important part of Canada’s outdoor heritage.
“Going fishing is a great way for families to spend time together this summer. It’s easy, inexpensive and fun for the whole family,” said Minister Ballem. “And no matter what part of the province people call home, all Islanders are certain to be just minutes away from a fishing hole.”
“Whether it’s brook trout fishing in streams or on ponds, Atlantic salmon fishing on larger rivers, or a deep sea outing for cod or mackerel fishing,” Mr. Ballem said, “Prince Edward Island boasts some of the best recreational fishing in some of the most beautiful natural areas in the region. I hope Islanders take time this summer to discover some of these areas. A family fishing outing provides a perfect opportunity for young Islanders to gain an appreciation of our natural environment and the importance of protecting it.”
Prince Edward Island sees several benefits from the recreational fishery. Angling contributes to healthy lifestyles and results in significant economic spinoffs in Prince Edward Island, with $3.6 million in spending directly attributable to the recreational fishery. Anglers also play an important role in ensuring fish populations and fish habitat remain healthy - through volunteer work as well as licence purchases which provide funding for habitat improvement projects.
The Department of Environment and Energy works in partnership with community groups across Prince Edward Island to promote family fishing and, in particular, catch and release fishing. Several groups hosted youth fishing events during the Take Your Family Fishing Weekend in May, and the Trout Unlimited Canada Prince County Chapter will be hosting a special event Saturday, July 10 to celebrate National Fishing Week. For more information on the event, call 859-1552.
The Department of Environment and Energy has a variety of materials to help first-time anglers get started, including maps of fishing locations across the province and Catch Fishing, a “how to” guide for amateur anglers. The Angling Summary 2004 is also an excellent source of information on all relevant regulations, fishing ethics and safety. For further information, call (902) 368-4683 or check the Web site at www.gov.pe.ca/go/familyfishing.