The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (COS) are joining forces to ensure anglers respect the rules while enjoying freshwater lakes and rivers throughout British Columbia this summer.

For the second year in a row, through the generosity of the society, popular fishing areas will see extra patrols by conservation officers to address illegal activity and encourage compliance.

In 2003, the province signed a 30-year contract with the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC to be a non-profit delivery partner with a mandate to conserve and enhance freshwater fishing opportunities in B.C.

Since April 1, 2015, 100% of freshwater fishing licence revenue has been invested in recreational fisheries, delivering on a commitment government made in 2013, a Ministry of Environment press release stated.

Last year alone saw funding of $10 million, some of which the society invests to enhance existing compliance, enforcement and education efforts.

Between May and November 2015, conservation officers spent an additional 2,017 hours on angling compliance and enforcement activities.

During this period, 4,019 anglers and angling guides were checked for compliance. COs handed out 599 charges and warnings.

“Thanks to the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, the province’s freshwater lakes and rivers will have additional conservation officers on patrol, ensuring compliance and providing outreach to angling communities. At this time of year, fishing is an especially popular activity on B.C. waters and increased patrols help protect fish and the environment,” said Mary Polak, Minister of Environment.

“Building on the success of last year’s pilot project, the society and B.C.’s anglers are helping support another year of enhanced outreach, compliance and enforcement from the Conservation Officer Service,” added Andrew Wilson, president, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.

Non-compliance with the Wildlife Act has a direct impact on fish, the environment, revenues to the society and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, as well as the overall fishing experience in B.C.

British Columbians are encouraged to report suspicious angling activity to the B.C. Conservation Officer Services’ Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at: 1 877 952-7277.

Anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a current valid B.C. freshwater fishing license to fish in non-tidal waters.

Fishing licences can be purchased online, through vendors at local tackle shops or from a government agent.

Learn more about B.C.’s freshwater fishing regulations.

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