The Alberta government is luring Albertans to the outdoors this weekend.
From July 7 to 8 is free fishing weekend in Alberta. No licences are required to reel in some fish and have some fun.
The weekend gives a chance for first time anglers to try their hand or the experienced a chance to teach their friends and family.
“It’s a great opportunity to get anyone interested in angling out and enjoy the outdoors. For people who like angling, it’s a great way to teach someone who hasn’t before,” said Jag Sandhu, with Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development.
During the, weekend, Albertans can head to any public body of water in the province with an open fishing season, excluding national parks. Each year since 2001, there have been two such weekends during the year. One on Family Day and the other in the summer, coinciding with National Fishing Week.
Once casting that first line, it might become hard to stop.
“Alberta has a lot to offer in terms of natural areas and getting in tune with nature. “I tried fishing for the first time this summer and I wanted to go out the weekend after,” said Sandhu.
Last year, there were roughly 250,900 fishing licences sold in Alberta. Licences, for ages 16-64 cost $25.66.
As part of the weekend, the Bow Habitat Station in Calgary will be celebrating with a pancake breakfast at 9 a.m. and reduced emission to the Discovery Centre and Fish Hatchery. The Bow Habitat will also be opening the Kids Trout Pond.
To learn more about fishing in Alberta and the rules, visit www.mywildalberta.com or the Angling in Alberta Facebook page.
