OFAH supports new Canadians’ fascination for fishing

OFAH FILE: 842
July 12, 2012
For Immediate Release

OFAH supports new Canadians’ fascination for fishing

Ontario is admired all around the world for its vast outdoor opportunities. This weekend, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) is doing its part to welcome new Canadians to our local fishing culture through its second year hosting a fishing event for recent immigrants. The event is created in partnership with the New Canadians Centre Peterborough (NCC) with support from Coleman Canada and will take place on Saturday morning from 9 am until 11:30 am at the OFAH|Mario Cortellucci Hunting & Fishing Heritage Centre and Shimano Pond.

New Canadians Fishing Day was spearheaded as another outstanding OFAH initiative to promote conservation and outdoor participation.

“We are inspired by new Canadians’ fascination for fishing and the great outdoors,” said Angelo Lombardo, OFAH Executive Director. “They help remind us that public fishing and hunting opportunities are not easily found in other parts of the world, and that we should always appreciate what is easily taken for granted.”

The event is part of the Peterborough Partnership Council on Immigrant Integration (PPCII) Welcome Pass program. It also coincides with Ontario Family Fishing Week, which means adult attendees don’t need to purchase a license to fish.

Participation is by registration only and includes:

• Fishing equipment, bait, and lessons by OFAH volunteers;
• Instruction on the Heritage Centre’s new Excalibur Archery and Stoeger Airgun Ranges;
• The chance to win a Coleman camping prize;
• Free pancake breakfast supported by the Kawartha Choice FarmFresh and GPAEDC.

“Last year’s OFAH fishing event helped us launch the Peterborough Welcome Pass and was a tremendous success with almost 100 newcomers representing 19 different countries in attendance,” said Jason Stabler, PPCII Coordinator. “We are very fortunate to have dedicated partners like the OFAH that support outreach and education opportunities for new Canadians.”

With over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 670 member clubs, the OFAH is the largest nonprofit, charitable, fishing, hunting and conservation-based organization in Ontario, and the voice of anglers and hunters. For more information, visit www.ofah.org, like us on Facebook and follow us @ofah.

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