Ontario Family Fishing Weekend just keeps growing!

Ontario Family Fishing Weekend just keeps growing!
Over 70 licence-free fishing events planned for July 10 through 12

2009 promises to be another record-breaking year for the popular family fishing initiative, Ontario Family Fishing Weekend (O.F.F.W.). Over 70 outdoor clubs, service organizations and provincial parks are planning to host events from Friday, July 10 through Sunday July12.

Now in its 16th year, the Ontario Family Fishing Weekend Committee, led by the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.), will once again oversee a full weekend of free fishing at family-friendly events. There are two family fishing weekends held annually, one in July, which was started back in 1993, and one in February, which was introduced in 2007. The summer version of the province-wide weekend runs during National Fishing Week, July 4 through 12.

"Ontario Family Fishing Weekend helps introduce a new generation to nature and the pleasures of fishing," said Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield. "Dozens of local events give novice anglers a taste of an activity they can enjoy for a lifetime."

Canadian citizens do not require a licence to fish in Ontario waters during O.F.F.W. Conservation licence limits are in effect and all other fishing regulations apply. Free copies of Fishing Ontario 2008-2009 Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary are available at all ServiceOntario centres, many outdoor outfitters and online at www.ontario.ca/fishing.

"Fishing provides families with the opportunity to reconnect in the outdoors, away from the many distractions of everyday life," said O.F.A.H. Executive Director, Mike Reader. "With 70 organizations volunteering to host Ontario Family Fishing Weekend events across the province, thousands of people will experience fishing, perhaps for the first time."

There is still time for organizations to get onboard and register to host an event. The O.F.A.H. offers start-up assistance to new groups, including a free Ontario Family Fishing Weekend information package that includes volunteer and participation certificates, flyers and posters, Take-A-Kid Fishing and Catch Fishing booklets, and tips for event planning. Clubs are invited to add an event to the growing list, and participants are encouraged to visit the website to find the location of the event nearest them. Visit www.familyfishingweekend.com or call Mark Cousins at 705-748-6324 ext. 233.

Ontario Family Fishing Weekend is delivered in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association, the Canadian Sportfishing Industry Foundation, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

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