No licence required for free fishing weekend

Normally eager anglers need a licence to go catch fish in Saskatchewan, but this weekend will be different.

July 9 and 10 is Saskatchewan’s Free Fishing weekend, where a licence isn’t needed to go fishing in the province.

Fisheries Project Coordinator for the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation Adam Matichuk said it’s a time to get people out on the waters who haven’t fished before or aren’t able to because they don’t have a licence.

“With any sport or activity it’s important to get people involved, because if you don’t it starts to disappear and the desire to use and protect our fisheries and our aquatic resources start to disappear as well,” Matichuk said.

According to Matichuk, the free fishing weekend allows people to get out together and take in what Saskatchewan has to offer, including the nearly 100,000 lakes and rivers.

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“We have so many beautiful lakes and streams in Saskatchewan whether they’re in the north or the south and it’s a great opportunity for people to get out with their family and friends,” Matichuk said. “Summer is short here in Saskatchewan so it’s a wonderful chance to get out and enjoy those resources that we have.”

Despite not needing a licence, Matichuk wants people to be aware the rest of the fishing rules are still in place this weekend.

“All of the fishing regulations still apply, particularly limits or if there are any regulations pertaining to barbless hooks or anything like that. Everything still applies,” Matichuk said.

Matichuk added potential fishers looking to head out this weekend should find a copy of the Anglers Guide to ensure they know the rules and regulations.

National Parks are not included in Free Fishing Weekend and anyone planning to transport fish out of the province must purchase a licence.

Matt Kelly is battlefordsNOW’s town municipal affairs and community reporter. He can be reached at mkelly@jpbg.ca. Concerns regarding this story can be addressed to News Director Geoff Smith at 306-446-6397.