The province of Saskatchewan is holding their annual Free Fishing Weekend July 7 and 8.

Bob Skaftfeld, a Fisheries Policy Analyst, said the free fishing weekend means visitors from outside the province will be able to fish in Saskatchewan without having to purchase a license.

“The big thing to remember is that all the rules and regulations still apply, except for the fact that you don’t need a license. The other key thing to remember is that if you are taking fish out of the province, at that point you would have to buy a license,” Skaftfeld said.

So long as you eat the fish within the province and have nothing to take home, then you don’t need a license.

Other regulations still apply including possession limits and reduced limits on some lakes and rivers.

On average, approximately 250,000 people fish in Saskatchewan each year, including more than 40,000 out-of-province anglers.

The Free fishing weekend does not apply to national parks like Prince Albert National Park.

Anglers on Lac La Ronge must have a free endorsement, available at local merchants. This endorsement helps to conserve and enhance the lake trout population.

Free Fishing Weekend has been in effect since 1989.

“It’s all about promoting Saskatchewan outdoors, getting families together and just seeing the variety of fishing opportunities we have in the province,” Skaftfeld said.

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