FREE FISHING WEEKEND

The weekend of July 11 and 12 is Saskatchewan's annual free fishing weekend. That means everyone, including visitors from outside the province, can fish in Saskatchewan without having to purchase a licence.

"Saskatchewan offers a world class fishing experience," Environment Minister Nancy Heppner said. "This weekend is a good time to try your luck fishing in one of our wonderful lakes and rivers or to introduce new anglers to one of the province's most popular outdoor activities. It's also a time for us to recognize the importance of our fish and aquatic resources."

On average, more than 230,000 people fish in Saskatchewan each year, including more than 40,000 out-of-province anglers.

Anyone planning to take advantage of the 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, available at local merchants. This endorsement helps to conserve and enhance the lake trout population and to gather data on angling pressure and harvest on Lac La Ronge.

The public is also reminded that seniors 65 and older, who reside in Saskatchewan, are no longer required to obtain an angling licence. All that is now required is proof of residency and age, such as their provincial driver's licence, which must be shown to conservation offers or RCMP officers upon request.

More information about fishing in Saskatchewan can be found in the 2009 Anglers' Guide, available wherever fishing licences are sold, or online at www.environment.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Dunn
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-2675