New Docks make Access Easier for all Anglers
Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
Thanks to the installation of new fishing docks around the province, B.C. anglers will be able to enjoy easier and more frequent access to fishing. In 2015, docks were installed in nine communities where fishing from docks was previously unavailable, or fishing from shore was poor. Now everyone – from avid anglers who want to fit in a quick hour of fishing, to new anglers who don’t have access to a boat – will be able to enjoy good fishing on more lakes.
As of April 1, 2015, under a new agreement with the provincial government, the Society receives 100% of fishing licence revenue to invest in infrastructure and services to support freshwater fishing in B.C. – like new fishing docks. Improved access to popular fishing spots and stocked lakes supports the Society’s goal to reduce barriers to angling, resulting in greater participation in the sport. It also leaves a legacy for current and future anglers, and dovetails nicely with the Society’s stocking, Rod Loan, and Learn to Fish programs.
New docks have been placed over fish-attracting shoals or drop-off areas at lakes near urban centres and in regional and provincial parks throughout the province, including Ross near Hazelton; Reservoir, near Williams Lake; Ten-Mile, near Quesnel; Tunkwa, near Kamloops; Shannon in West Kelowna; Jimsmith, near Cranbrook; Nicola near Merritt, Poirier in Sooke; and Echo, near Campbell River. An existing dock has also been extended at Shane Lake in Prince George. These fishing docks are a result of partnerships between the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the B.C. Government, local governments, fishing clubs, and every angler whose freshwater fishing licence fees contribute to the dock program.
“Adding dock access to lakes around the province is an exciting step for us in removing barriers for people wishing to enjoy the angling experience,” noted Dana Atagi, Vice-President, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. “A dock allows people to be catching fish in less time and with less expense, and we hope more people will give it a try.”
Originally published here.