Congratulations to Minister Ramsay for working in partnership with the O.F.A.H. and the O.F.F.W. Committee to promote Ontario's recreational fishing traditions," said O.F.A.H. Executive Director, Mike Reader. "We are pleased that the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources has not only stood behind Ontario Family Fishing Weekend but, on its own initiative, increased opportunities for Canadian residents to participate in this outstanding program."
The original concept for Ontario's license-free fishing weekend was an O.F.A.H. initiative. Now into its 14th year, Ontario Family Fishing Weekend is the province's flagship outdoors event that works to teach kids and parents about conservation, responsible fishing and outdoor safety. In July, Ontario Family Fishing Weekend runs in conjunction with a coast-to-coast promotional fishing strategy called National Fishing Week.
As announced today by Minister Ramsay, Canadian residents can fish license-free in any public waters across Ontario on Saturday, February 24, and Sunday, February 25. Events offering free instruction on ice fishing will be held in various locations throughout Ontario where ice conditions permit safe fishing opportunities.
"Ice fishing is a renowned part of Canada's culture and it is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of families every winter. Particularly in central and northern Ontario, hard water angling is a multi-million dollar industry which will also benefit from the new Ontario Family Fishing Weekend and its celebration of this important winter tradition," said Reader.
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters would like to help anyone who is interested in hosting local events during the first ever winter license-free Ontario Family Fishing Weekend. For more information, visit
www.familyfishingweekend.com