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Family Fishing Weekend events in region June 17 and 18
For many families, summer’s official start is the Father’s Day weekend.
That’s when Family Fishing Weekend kicks off the summer fishing season with events throughout the province, including in Cranbrook, Invermere and Creston.
These social fishing and instructional events celebrate Dad and the sport of freshwater fishing for anglers of all experience levels.
During that weekend, June 16 – 18, fishing licence requirements are waived for Canadian citizens, making it easier to celebrate together with Dad.
In addition to waiving licence requirements, most events are free for families of all ages, offering hands-on instruction and fishing-related activities. Loaner rods, reels and tackle are often provided for those who do not have their own gear.
Many events also host a barbecue or food trucks to round out the day. Family Fishing Weekend events also offer opportunities to learn about fishing gear, share fishing tips and learn about environmental stewardship. Local guides frequently share region-specific tips for year-round fishing adventures.
“Youth have continued to take up the sport of freshwater fishing after the jump during the pandemic. And we are seeing our seniors returning to the sport as well. This Family Fishing Weekend we hope to see even more parents and grandparents out enjoying this licence-free weekend together,” said Mike Gass, Manager of Recreational Fishing Development. “As families continue to struggle with inflation and rising costs, these events reduce barriers so families can focus on being together.”
Family Fishing Weekend events are taking place throughout the Kootenays:
Creston is hosting the Mawson Lake Family fishing derby on June 17 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Invermere at Lake Lilian on June 17 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cranbrook’s event is at Idlewild Lake on June 18 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
While Canadian residents are permitted to fish licence-free over the three days, some requirements remain in effect. Details are posted on the BC Family Fishing website and the Fisheries and Oceans website.
The popular Learn to Fish program is also continuing through the summer at lakes in municipal and provincial parks throughout the Lower Mainland, southern Vancouver Island, Kootenays and Thompson-Okanagan. An introductory half-day program designed for kids five to 15 and their families, Learn to Fish teaches the basics of how, when and where to catch fish in fresh water. Also through the summer the Rod Loan program is available in many communities, offering free loans of spinning rods with reels and a basic box of tackle to individuals and families.
“We know it’s important for families to be able to do things together and we’re thrilled to offer a fun family activity with Dad that doesn’t have cost as a potential barrier,” said Outreach Coordinator of the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Jenna Merth. “And we know spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to be together. By providing gear and instruction at no cost, and locating events in both urban and rural locations, they are accessible to families with children of all ages.”
Events are supported by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and organized by BC Wildlife Federation Fish and Game clubs, the Conservation Officer Service, municipalities, community groups, and local businesses.
A complete list of participating communities, locations, and event descriptions, along with step-by-step fishing instructions, can be found at www.bcfamilyfishing.com. Freshwater and tidal fishing regulations, including daily catch quotas, always apply; details are posted at www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca or www.fishing.gov.bc.ca.
Family Fishing Weekend was established by the Province of BC to encourage new anglers as well as promote other angling initiatives targeted toward families and young people. This year marks the 24th year of the licence-free fishing weekend.
e-KNOW file photo
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