Free Fishing June 1 and 2

People are encouraged to try their hand at sportfishing on Nova Scotia Sportfishing Weekend, Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2.

Residents and non-residents can fish without a general fishing licence during the annual event.

"Sportfishing weekend is a great opportunity for families to be together and enjoy the outdoors," said Sterling Belliveau, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. "I encourage beginners, fishing enthusiasts and especially young anglers to come out June 1-2 to discover or rediscover the joys of angling."

The sportfishing weekend is supported by more than 20 community organizations, with fishing derbies throughout the province offering fun and prizes. A full list of events is available at http://novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing/sfweekend.shtml.

More than 70,000 people participate in sportfishing each year, making it one of the province's most popular active outdoor sports. It is worth about $85 million a year to the province's economy.

Mr. Belliveau encouraged all anglers to put safety first when fishing this season.

"Sportfishing is a unique and enjoyable outdoor experience, but I would like to remind all anglers to use caution this season and enjoy the outdoors safely," said Mr. Belliveau. "I especially urge those on the water to use floatation devices."

Although a licence is not required on free sportfishing weekend, all bag limits and other regulations still apply. Regulations and more information on sport fishing in Nova Scotia can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/fish/sportfishing/.