Albertan anglers can fish for free this weekend. July 9 and 10 is Family Fishing Weekend and Albertans young and old can cast their line; no licence is required.
Family fishing weekends are offered twice a year in Alberta – during the Family Day weekend and during National Fishing Week in the summer. This year, National Fishing Week runs July 2-10.
“Family fishing weekend is a great opportunity for people of all abilities to get out and get hooked on one of Alberta’s favourite pastimes,” said Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks. “While this is a great opportunity, I would ask everyone to please be aware of low river flow and high temperatures in some areas. These conditions cause additional stress to fish populations.”
Low river flows in parts of the province have prompted some advisories. Albertans are urged to consider fishing in lakes rather than rivers in these areas and to follow safe handling procedures to minimize stress to the fish population.
Not sure where to cast your line? New this year, the Alberta Fish Stocking Map provides a geographical snapshot with the latest information on the types of fish provincial fisheries are stocking in which lakes.
There are more than 200 stocked waterbodies in the province for anglers to enjoy and these lakes are a great alternative where river flows are low.
Despite the fact that ‘fisherfolk’ don’t require a licence this weekend, all other sport fishing regulations apply.
