Let’s go fishing in Toronto!

OFAH FILE: 842
July 7, 2011

Let’s go fishing in Toronto!
OFAH Travelling TackleShare lending program coming to High Park and Toronto Island

Aspiring anglers who would like to try fishing but aren’t sure how to get started, will want to head to High Park or Toronto Island soon. The OFAH Travelling TackleShare program is visiting these locations over the July 9-10 weekend and is loaning out everything aspiring anglers need to drop a line, including fishing gear, bait and basic instructions.

Travelling TackleShare is an initiative of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) and is generously sponsored by Ontario Power Generation. This free outreach program will be at Grenadier Pond in High Park on July 9, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and the Toronto Island Park on Toronto Island on July 10, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

“There is something so memorable about catching your first fish,” said Mike Reader, OFAH Executive Director. “Through the Travelling TackleShare program, we are introducing hundreds of young people to fishing and at the same time, connecting them with our precious Ontario waterways. Hopefully, their TackleShare experience will spark a lifelong interest in fishing and a real appreciation for our natural resources.”

The OFAH runs two lending programs; TackleShare, which loans gear from over 100 loaner sites across Ontario; and Travelling TackleShare, which brings fishing gear to a variety of events in different locations during the summer. Both programs are designed to break down the barriers that prevent youth from experiencing the fun and challenge of fishing.

“Tackleshare is a great way for families to enjoy Ontario’s lakes and rivers,” says John Murphy, OPG’s Executive Vice President Hydro. “It’s also a good opportunity to learn the basics of water safety by reminding enthusiasts to stay clear of dangerous water around dams and waterways. Water levels can rise in seconds, so please be sure “Stay clear, stay safe.”

The Toronto TackleShare events fall during National Fishing Week and Ontario Family Fishing Week, July 2-10. During Family Fishing Week, Canadian residents between 18 and 64 years of age are able to fish without a normally mandatory fishing licence. Children and seniors do not require a licence to fish in Ontario. All other Ontario fishing regulations apply.

With over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 670 member clubs, the OFAH is the largest nonprofit fish and wildlife conservation-based organization in Ontario. Visit www.ofah.org to learn more. To learn about TackleShare, visit www.tackleshare.com.

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