Released on July 10, 2014
Saskatchewan’s annual summertime Free Fishing Weekend could be picture perfect for some anglers this year.Not only is everyone – including visitors to the province – free to fish over the July 12-13 weekend without having to buy a licence, but anglers are also encouraged to submit photos of their trophy catches to Tourism Saskatchewan’s ExploreSask Photo Contest. Details are available at www.TourismSaskatchewan.com/PhotoContest.
“With nearly 100,000 lakes and rivers, Saskatchewan is one of the most impressive fishing destinations in the world,” Environment Minister Scott Moe said. “The Free Fishing Weekend is an excellent chance for people to enjoy fishing in some of the province’s beautiful lakes and waterways. It is also a weekend to get visitors hooked on the great scenery and fishing opportunities Saskatchewan offers.”
On average, more than 200,000 people fish in Saskatchewan each year, including more than 40,000 out-of-province anglers. Almost 70 different species of fish inhabit the province’s lakes, rivers and streams. Northern pike and walleye are common species throughout the province. Yellow perch are abundant in south and central fishing zones. Northern lakes teem with walleye, Arctic grayling, northern pike and lake trout.
Saskatchewan has one of the largest concentrations of fly-in fishing lodges in the world. Numerous drive-in operations are popular destinations, as well.
Free Fishing Weekend does not occur in national parks, and anyone planning to take fish out of the province must purchase a licence. All other fishing regulations apply, including possession limits and reduced limits on some lakes and rivers.
The ministry wants people to enjoy boating and angling on Saskatchewan’s lakes and reminds everyone to be safe in their recreational activities and to practice safe boating. Boaters should also be aware that many lakes and rivers have been affected by recent flooding and to take special precautions.
Anglers on Lac La Ronge must have a free endorsement (available at local merchants) to conserve and enhance the lake trout population, and to gather angling pressure data on the lake.
More information about fishing in Saskatchewan can be found in the 2014 Anglers’ Guide, available wherever fishing licences are sold, or online at www.saskatchewan.ca/fishing.
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For more information, contact:
Michele McEachern
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0412
Email: michele.mceachern@gov.sk.ca