Released on February 13, 2017
Saskatchewan’s annual winter free fishing weekend is once again during the province’s Family Day holiday weekend on February 18, 19 and 20. One weekend is designated each winter to encourage participation in ice fishing, where residents and visitors may fish in any of Saskatchewan’s public waters with an open sport fishing season, without purchasing a fishing licence.
“Fishing is one of Saskatchewan’s most popular activities, attracting more than 250,000 people each year,” Environment Minister Scott Moe said. “This weekend is a great opportunity for people and their families to learn about and enjoy the sport of ice fishing and to recognize the value of this provincial resource.”
Safety is key to enjoyable ice fishing. Always use caution and common sense. Test the ice thickness before you travel on it. A minimum of 10 cm of good ice is required for walking and 30 cm for light vehicle travel. Wear warm clothing.
Anyone planning to take advantage of free fishing weekend is reminded that all other fishing regulations, including possession limits and reduced limits on some lakes and rivers remain in effect.
Free fishing weekend does not apply in national parks and anyone planning to take fish out of the province must purchase a licence. Anglers on Lac la Ronge must have a free endorsement and associated harvest ledger. These may be obtained for free through private issuers, Ministry of Environment and select provincial park offices.
More information about fishing in Saskatchewan can be found in the 2016 Anglers’ Guide, available wherever fishing licences are sold, or online at www.saskatchewan.ca/fishing.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Jamie Gibson
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3900
Email: jamie.gibson@gov.sk.ca