Family Fishing Day

Details

Family Fishing Day is a free, family oriented, community event which happens annually in conjunction with BC’s Family Fishing Weekend. The event includes: youth fishing derby, Learn to Fish lessons, arts/crafts, concession, environmental education, fish release, partner groups, door prizes and more! Each year this event draws about 1,200 participants

During Father’s Day weekend, families will have even more opportunities to enjoy fishing together during the 17th annual Family Fishing Weekend June 17 to 19. To make Family Fishing Weekend events accessible to everyone, the events are free and participants do not have to buy a fishing licence.

On Saturday, June 18th from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC is celebrating Family Fishing Day at its Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery pond in Abbotsford. The event offers activities for freshwater fishers of all experience levels. For beginners, Freshwater Fisheries staff at the Learn to Fish booth will assist with casting techniques, proper fish handling and getting the fishing rod ready. Rapala fishing gear may be borrowed for free from the hatchery.

Due to the popularity of this event guests who wish to take a turn at the fish pond are asked to register for a time on arrival. Fishing sessions last 20 minutes and fill quickly. Those who plan to keep their catch are reminded to bring a cooler.

In addition to fishing there are arts and crafts stations, tours of the fish hatchery, a concession stand, door prizes and a live fish release at 12:50 pm. Prizes will be awarded throughout the day.

Thanks to the Province of B.C., Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canadian residents can try fishing B.C.’s lakes, rivers, streams, and tidal waters without purchasing a licence.

A complete list of participating communities, locations, and event descriptions, along with step-by-step fishing instructions, can be found at www.bcfamilyfishing.com. Freshwater and tidal fishing regulations, including daily catch quotas, always apply; details are posted at www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca or www.fishing.gov.bc.ca.