BC's Family Fishing Weekend - June 17-19

Fisheries & Oceans Canada

B.C.'s Family Fishing Weekend is an annual celebration of the great tradition of sport fishing. Residents of British Columbia are encouraged to get together with family and friends, to "GO FISH" during the Father's Day weekend.

During B.C.’s Family Fishing Weekend, Canadian residents can go fishing at no cost in many of B.C.’s tidal areas, lakes and streams. The Canadian Government is offering British Columbians an opportunity to fish without a licence for Father’s Day weekend, June 17, 18 and 19, 2016 (except if you wish to fish for and retain a salmon). Retaining salmon requires both a tidal water fishing licence and a salmon conservation stamp. You can purchase these online.

The B.C. Government also offers a complimentary three-day basic freshwater licence valid only for Father’s Day weekend.

Should you already have a valid Tidal Water Sport Fishing licence, you must carry it when you are fishing during the Family Fishing Weekend.  You must also record your catch for the species specified on your licence conditions.

All tidal area closures and recreational fishing limits and restrictions apply. See the B.C. Sport Fishing Guide for details. Please inform yourself of these requirements and contribute to the conservation and stewardship of B.C.'s treasured aquatic resources.

List of community fishing events during B.C.’s Family Fishing Weekend

More information about catch and release fishing 

Click here for Family Fishing Weekend FAQ