This release was issued under a previous government.

Reel in some fun this Family Day weekend

Make it a Family Day to remember - families from all over Alberta can enjoy fishing without a licence this weekend.

Free fishing weekends are offered twice a year in Alberta - during the Family Day weekend and during National Fishing Week in July. They are a great way to get youth and those who have never fished before interested in angling.

“Fishing allows us to spend quality time with each other while also providing a connection to nature that improves our health and well-being. Family Fishing Weekend also helps anglers introduce children to Alberta’s diverse ecosystems and fish species and I encourage all Albertans to join in this wonderful experience.”

Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks

The Lesser Slave Watershed Council is hosting a Kids Can Catch event in Joussard, AB on Lesser Slave Lake on Saturday, Feb. 17 with support from the Alberta Conservation Association.

Volunteers will be on hand to help teach new anglers the proper ways to bait a hook, where to drop a line and what to do once a fish has been caught.

This is a great opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy a day outside with your family. I can't guarantee you will catch a fish, but I will guarantee you will bring home great memories.

Todd Zimmerling, president and CEO, Alberta Conservation Association

“We want to encourage enjoyment and stewardship of our lake and provide a fun opportunity to engage with families in our community.”

Meghan Payne, executive director, Lesser Slave Watershed Council 

Alberta’s sportfishing regulations still apply during free fishing weekend. Safety tips and fishing rules can be found in the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations, available at AlbertaRelm.com.

Quick facts

  • Last year, nearly 300,000 Albertans bought a fishing licence online at albertarelm.com or at one of almost 300 issuer locations across Alberta.
  • More than 31,000 Albertans participated in the draw for a walleye special harvest licence.
  • Sportfishing licence sales generated more than $8.5 million last year, of which 64 per cent is distributed to the Alberta Conservation Association to support its fisheries program.