The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC is expanding the summer Learn to Fish programs for Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
Seven new events have increased the number of Learn to Fish sessions to 40 at 19 locations in regional parks and urban lakes for local and visiting youth and their families.
In Campbell River, Learn to Fish will be held on Tyee Spit on August 13 from 6 – 8 p.m. and August 14 from 2 – 4 p.m. Register by calling 250-286-1161. New this year, Learn to Fish will also be held at Buttle Lake in Strathcona Provincial Park on August 26 from 6 – 8 p.m. Meet at Buttle Lake Campground (off Gold River Hwy), and follow signs to the swimming beach.
“There is an increasing interest in freshwater fishing across the region, and the best way to facilitate that interest is to make fishing more readily accessible and available. By bringing the programs closer, and providing equipment, there are fewer barriers for people interested in trying the sport,” says Tanya Laird, Provincial Outreach Coordinator. “Access to programs in their own community will make it easier for youth and their families to experience the sport together.”
Learn to Fish events are hosted on a drop-in basis for youngsters aged five to 15, and their families at provincial park locations. Participants are asked to arrive on time for the sessions as fishing techniques and ethics are taught in advance of the hands-on portion. Pre-registration is required for most urban programs in regional parks. Children under 16 do not require a freshwater fishing licence to participate.
Learn to Fish events teach fish identification and biology; habitat and conservation; proper fish handling; ethics, safety, and fishing regulations. Instructors explain fishing tackle (rods, reels, lines, and lures) and knot-tying. Participants get hands on experience while learning about casting and retrieving and tips and techniques for catching fish. All equipment is provided and two hour programs run rain or shine.
There is no cost to participate, because of support from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Columbia Basin Trust, Rapala, Ram Trucks Canada, and Teck, but donations are gratefully accepted.
For a complete listing of Learn to Fish and other programs throughout Vancouver Island visit gofishbc.com.
