Father’s Day weekend is about spending time with Dad. And what better way to have fun in the outdoors than freshwater fishing as a family?
During the 16th Annual Family Fishing Weekend, held over Father’s Day weekend June 19-21, Canadian families throughout the province may borrow equipment, learn more about freshwater fishing, partake in a variety of activities or simply enjoy spending time together fishing B.C.’s lakes, rivers, streams, and tidal waters. And for the duration of the weekend families may fish without needing to purchase a licence.
“Whether you are learning together or spending a day enjoying a sport that you have enjoyed together for a long time, Family Fishing Weekend is a great way for the whole family to spend time together with Dad,” said Michele Dusterhoft, President, Family Fishing Society of BC. “It brings novices and experts together to enjoy what the sport has to offer in a fun environment.”
Hosted by The Family Fishing Society of BC and volunteer-led community groups, over 50 Family Fishing Weekend events across the province will feature hands-on help for beginners and celebrate the tradition of recreational fishing in B.C. Loaner rods, reels and tackle are provided for those who do not have their own gear. The Family Fishing Society estimates that 25,000 British Columbians participate in Family Fishing Weekend each year.
Events will be held across Vancouver Island here are some local ones:
- Campbell River: Discovery Pier, June 20 - 21; Echo Lake, June 20.
- Courtenay: Fish & Game Pond, June 20 – 21.
- Gold River: Star Lake, June 21.
- Quadra Island: Village Bay Lake, June 20 – 21
Family Fishing Weekend is supported by the Province of B.C., Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
“Family Fishing Weekend is designed to be as accessible as possible not only so people are able to enjoy the sport with friends and family but also to provide opportunities to learn about the fish, their environment and the importance of conservation,” says Brian Springinotic, CEO, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. “It reminds people that with enjoyment of the activity comes the need for responsible use, sustainable use, and stewardship of the resource to ensure many future generations will be enjoying fishing in our province.”
In addition to supporting the Family fishing Weekend, Habitat Conservation Trust has been a key partner in expanding dock infrastructure to improve access to fishing in both urban and rural regions of BC.
A complete list of participating communities, locations and event descriptions, along with step-by-step fishing instructions and regulations can be found at www.bcfamilyfishing.com.
Freshwater and tidal fishing regulations, including daily catch quotas, still apply during Family Fishing Weekend. Details are posted at www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca or www.fishing.gov.bc.ca.
The Family Fishing Society of BC was established in 2001 to encourage new anglers as well as promote and coordinate Family Fishing Weekend and other angling initiatives targeted toward families and young people. 2015 marks the 16th year of this licence-free fishing weekend.