VICTORIA - A weekend on the water with rod and reel, and no need to purchase a fishing licence, is part of a plan to get more British
Columbians hooked on the art of angling.

B.C.'s Family Fishing Weekend is an opportunity for families to enjoy the sport of fishing in the province's tens of thousands of lakes and non-tidal streams with a three-day licence, compliments of the B.C. government.

Environment Minister Barry Penner said it is the B.C. government's way of encouraging families to get out and enjoy the great outdoors and perhaps get hooked on the sport. The annual Family Fishing Weekend, June
15-17 this year, celebrates the sport of fishing, fish, their habitat and the outdoor beauty of the province.

British Columbia offers some of the finest fishing opportunities in the world and Family Fishing Weekend, now in its eighth year, has introduced many people to the sport. The B.C. government is supporting the Family Fishing Society with $25,000 to hold events, with additional funding provided by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC along with
organizational help from many community groups and individuals. Sports anglers contribute nearly $1.2 billion annually to British Columbia's economy.

Throughout the province, many communities will be holding events where people can learn the rules of fishing and see what is being done to preserve, enhance and create fish habitat. Prizes are offered at some of those events.

Those who would rather try their hand in tidal waters are reminded that there is no charge for a saltwater sport fishing licence for those under 16, and one-day licences are available for resident adults at a charge
of only $5.57.

For more details and a list of communities where events are being held, visit www.bcfamilyfishing.com online.

Visit the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC online www.gofishbc.com for more information about fishing opportunities in British Columbia.