Family Fishing Week, the province’s final licence-free fishing window of 2019 taking place from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, June 29 until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 7, will offer no shortage of fishing opportunities.
Some 56 events – from fishing derbies to clinics and information seminars – had registered with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) as of June 18, said fishing programs outreach co-ordinator Taylor Stark.
They are happening across the province from Wheatley near Point Pelee on Lake Erie to South Lancaster east of Cornwall on the St. Lawrence River to Gogama in the north.
Many events are longstanding. The 31st annual Tall Tales Fishing Derby returns to Lake Whittaker Conservation Area in Harrietsville, hosted by the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, for example.
The 23rd annual Dorset Kids Fish Derby is also scheduled to return to the Dorset public dock and Cedar Narrows Park.
The province’s four licence-free events aim to introduce more people to fishing and remind everyone of the value of Ontario’s recreational fishery and the importance of keeping it healthy for future generations to enjoy.
Those fishing without a licence must adhere to conservation fishing licence limits and size limits set out in the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary. Regulations other than the licensing requirement remain in effect during licence-free days.
The province added new licence-free fishing dates on the Mother’s and Father’s Day weekends this year, following Family Fishing Weekend held in February.
Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 years must purchase a valid fishing licence to legally fish in Ontario at all other times.
Can you tell me if any events in the Madoc area or vicinity? My grandson is coming here next week and likes to go fishing! Thanks. Gayle Jeffrey