If you have been thinking about giving ice fishing a try, Saskatchewan鈥檚 Family Day weekend provides the perfect opportunity.聽 Equipment needs are fairly minimal, and no licence will be required.
During the province鈥檚 annual winter free fishing weekend, from February 13-15 this year, Saskatchewan residents and visitors can fish waterbodies that have an open sport fishing season without buying a fishing licence.聽 It鈥檚 important to note that free fishing weekend only applies to provincial waterbodies outside of the national parks.
鈥淓very year, more than a quarter of a million anglers enjoy Saskatchewan鈥檚 world-class fishery,鈥� Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said.聽 鈥淔ree fishing weekend is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and experience ice fishing, perhaps for the first time.鈥�
During free fishing weekend, all other regulations apply, including possession limits and reduced limits on some lakes and rivers.聽 Provincial rules also require that anyone planning to transport fish out of the province must have a valid Saskatchewan angling licence during this weekend.聽
Remember to observe all physical distancing restrictions, and to put safety first when going out on the ice.聽 Before you leave, always tell someone where you will be fishing and when you plan to return.聽 Dress for the weather, as frostbite can happen very quickly.聽 Use caution and be aware of ice thickness before travelling on it.聽 Water does not freeze uniformly and is unpredictable.聽 For walking, you need at least 10 cm of good ice, and at least 30 cm for light vehicle travel.聽
For more information about fishing in Saskatchewan, check the Saskatchewan Anglers Guide, available wherever fishing licences are sold or online at聽.
