This weekend, February 15-17, is Free Fishing Weekend throughout Saskatchewan. A whole weekend allowing those to enjoy fishing without having to purchase a license. Maxime LeGan, fisheries biologist with the Ministry of Environment, says this weekend allows those to rediscover the joys of fishing.
“It's something we've been doing for about 35 years (now) and it's a great opportunity for folks who maybe have never tried fishing before or maybe haven't been fishing for a while to go discover or rediscover the great resources we have here in the province. There’s sometimes not as many things to do in the winter and ice fishing is a great way to go out and kind of take advantage of the great resources that we have.”
All rules and regulations still apply for Free Fishing Weekend, such as fish limits and locations to fish. This weekend does not apply to national parks such as Prince Albert National Park or Grasslands National Park.
There is a plethora of information that anglers can access before heading out onto the ice such as the Saskatchewan Anglers Guide. LeGan recommends taking advantage of theis information before going out.
“We've got the resources available for people to get familiar with what the limits are or any special or general regulations. Our angler guides are available anywhere that licenses are sold, or you can get them online. Personally, I like to go on to our website www.saskatchewan.ca/fishing and you can download the PDF right onto your phone so if you're not in cell service you still have access to the guide. You can also search directly on your phone for the specific water body that you're going to fish.”
Other than following the rules and regulations, the Ministry of Environment encourages those to go out and explore the many fishing oppurtunities that this province has to offer, even if the weather is cooler as LeGan states.
“Certainly if you're going out this weekend, make sure you check the weather conditions and ice conditions; we want everybody to be safe while doing so. Obviously, (recommend) downloading the guide and getting those resources and just try to stay warm and making sure to bundle up.”
For more information about Free Fishing Weekend or about anything surrounding fishing in Saskatchewan, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/fishing or visit HABISask - Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment for an interactive map of Saskatchewan’s wildlife.