Residents of Saskatchewan will soon have the opportunity to try out angling as the province has a Free Fishing Weekend from July 12-13. The weekend lets people fish with no need for a fishing license over the weekend.
Mitchell Thorarinson, a fisheries biologist with the Ministry of Environment, talks about the upcoming weekend and what prospective anglers can expect.
"The Ministry of Environment invites everyone to enjoy Saskatchewan's beautiful lakes and rivers by trying out recreational fishing. This weekend, no licenses required. Free fishing weekend runs from July 12th to 2nd. Grab your gear, gather your family and friends, and experience the joy of fishing."
It won't quite be a free-for-all on Saskatchewan's waters as Thorarinson reminds people they still need to follow the regulations around fishing in the province.
"All other fishing regulations still apply, including possession limits and special reduced limits on certain lakes and rivers. Free fishing weekend does not apply within national parks. Anyone planning to transport fish out of Saskatchewan must purchase a valid fishing license."
Aside from a few lakes where there are special rules associated with fishing, any non-national park waters are open for free fishing.
Saskatchewan has been holding the free fishing weekend for the past few decades, with this being the 36th annual free fishing weekend.
Thorarinson has been with the ministry for just a couple of years, but is still a big fan of the event.
"I think it's a great way for some people who maybe wouldn't normally go out fishing to give it a try and see what it's all about."
Thorarinson says that people can pick up their Saskatchewan Angler's Guide for more information about regulations and rules by heading to saskatchewan.ca/fishing, or by going to any store which sells fishing licenses.
People can also head to HABISask, a resource by the provincial government which tracks stocking records, fish species,and more.