The City of Maple Ridge will host a family fishing event on Saturday, June 15, but has changed the venue from Mike Lake, in Golden Ears Provincial Park, to Whonnock Lake.
Tony Cotroneo, the city community recreation manager, said the event filled up quickly – there are already 100 registered and 60 more on a waiting list – and the city will be looking to expand it in future years.
"People want to do family activities outside," he said of the high interest.
Family Fishing Weekend is traditionally Father’s Day weekend, June 14 to 16 this year, with a lot of chances for families to get out and try the sport at events across the province, hosted by the BC Wildlife Federation and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C.
The city's partnership with those groups means fishing rods and tackle will be provided. Experienced anglers will be on hand to help bait a hook, tie a lure, and drop a line in a lake stocked with fish.
No fishing licence is required for the promotional weekend. On the third weekend in June, anyone who has lived in Canada for the past 12 months can fish in fresh water for free, without buying a licence. Fisheries and Oceans Canada also offers opportunities to fish in saltwater.
"You don't have to bring the gear, you don't have to buy licences, and you get taught how to fish," summarized Cotroneo.
In addition, Meridian Meats is providing the food for a free barbecue.
"Everything is no cost – it's a great family weekend," said Cotroneo.
The idea of Family Fishing Weekend is to bring more people to the sport. Over 800 lakes and rivers in B.C. are stocked with fish each year using licence dollars to support angling.
