Fish License-free this Family Fishing Weekend

It has been a mild winter, but the fishing is still hot!

TORONTO, Feb. 14, 2012 /CNW/ - A mild winter calls for extra caution when enjoying Ontario's License-free Family Fishing Weekend, says the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH).

Where ice conditions are safe, Ontario Family Fishing Events (OFFE) will be taking place province-wide from February 18 through Monday, February 20, which is the provincial Family Day. Outdoors clubs, service groups, conservation authorities and others are organizing fishing derbies designed just for children and their families. Many events are free or have minimal entrance fees.

"Ontario Family Fishing Events introduce fishing to people of all ages by offering Canadian residents the opportunity to fish Ontario waters license-free," said Alesha Caldwell Conservation Outreach Programs Coordinator for the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. "We have been running a media blitz on the Weather Network and other television and radio stations and the excitement is growing daily."

Ontarians spend well over a million days fishing through the ice every year, which generates economic benefits to many communities across the province. Winter or summer, fishing gives new anglers the chance to develop a strong connection with their natural surroundings and learn the importance of conservation.

The Ontario Family Fishing Events initiative is an OFAH and Ministry of Natural Resources partnership, supported by the Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association and other supporters. For more details and a complete list of events, visit  www.ontariofamilyfishing.com.

Media Contacts:
Lezlie Goodwin
OFAH Communications Manager
705-748-6324 ext 270
705-760-5537 (mobile)
[email protected]

Alesha Caldwell
OFAH Outreach Programs Coordinator
705-748-6324 ext. 254
705-930-1805 (mobile)
[email protected]