OFAH and Ontario Power Generation introduce fishing to a new generation

OFAH FILE: 842
April 30, 2014
For Immediate Release

OFAH and Ontario Power Generation introduce fishing to a new generation
OFAH/OPG TackleShare hits the road for three more years

Youth across Ontario will get access to the gear and the know-how to become expert anglers this summer as the OFAH/OPG TackleShare program gets ready to sweep the province for another year of fishing events beginning in May.

OFAH/OPG TackleShare is designed to break down barriers that keep kids from experiencing the joy of fishing by providing everything young anglers need. Participants simply sign out a rod, reel and tackle the same way they would borrow library materials.

OFAH/OPG TackleShare runs two programs: TackleShare Loaner Sites, which loans gear at more than 140 loaner sites across Ontario, and Travelling TackleShare, which brings fishing gear to a variety of events in different locations during the summer. The Travelling TackleShare crew also gives presentations on fish identification, invasive species, the food chain, fishing tips and water safety.

As title sponsor for the past five years, Ontario Power Generation (OPG) recently made a three year commitment to ensure Ontario’s youth continue to reap the benefits of fishing safely in the great outdoors for years to come.

“It’s important to understand that water near hydroelectric dams and stations can become dangerous in seconds,” says OPG’s Senior Vice President of Hydroelectric and Thermal Operations Mike Martelli. “We’re pleased to partner with OFAH on TackleShare to help support Ontario families experience the joy of fishing while teaching them to “Stay Clear and to Stay Safe” around OPG’s 65 hydroelectric stations and 240 dams.”

Travelling TackleShare will be coming to the following locations this summer:

• May 3 – Belwood – Belwood Lake Conservation Area
• May 24 – Bewdley –Bewdley Waterfront Park
• June 22 – Barrie – Heritage Park Shoreline
• July 5 – Toronto – High Park
• July 6 – Toronto – Toronto Island
• Aug. 16 – Bowmanville – Darlington Provincial Park

“All Ontario children should have the opportunity to catch their first fish, building memories that will last a lifetime,” OFAH Executive Director Angelo Lombardo said. “OFAH/OPG TackleShare makes that experience possible for those who don’t have the gear, but want to give fishing a try. It’s our hope the TackleShare experience will spark a lifelong interest in fishing and a real appreciation for our natural resources.”

For more information on OFAH/OPG TackleShare visit www.tackleshare.com and follow us on Twitter @OFAHTackleShare for event reminders and highlights throughout the summer. For more information on OPG’s water safety program, please visit www.stayclearstaysafe.ca.

With more than 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 720 member clubs, the OFAH is the province’s largest nonprofit, fish and wildlife conservation-based organization and the VOICE of anglers and hunters.

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