Saskatchewan's Free Fishing Weekend to allow anglers to cast a line without a licence
WATCH: On July 12 and 13, Saskatchewan residents can fish without a licence. Brittany Poitras gives us the details.
From July 12–13, anglers of all ages across Saskatchewan can cast a line without paying a fee during the province's 36th annual Free Fishing Weekend.
The Ministry of Environment started this initiative in 1989, to offer Saskatchewan residents and visitors the option to fish on public waters without a licence and to increase awareness of angling opportunities in the province.
While the licence requirement is waived for the weekend, all other fishing regulations like possession limits, size restrictions, and area-specific rules still apply. In addition, fishing within national parks or transporting your catch out of province still requires a licence.
Maxime LeGal, a fisheries biologist with the Ministry of Environment, said that while having fun is important, so is the care of the rules and wildlife.
'If you're practicing catch and release, handle fish gently,' he said. 'Avoid sensitive areas like the eyes and gills. And make sure to read the Anglers Guide so you know the rules for the body of water you're visiting,' LeGal advised.
'Catching fish is always a bonus - but the real joy is just getting outside, spending time together, and connecting with the land.'
Jason Matity, a lifelong fisherman and operator of GetFishing.ca, says the weekend isn't just a chance to reel in walleye or pike—it's a time to reconnect with nature and yourself.
'When you're younger, it's kind of something to do,' he said. 'As time goes on, I do it for mental wellness… to get out in nature, see the birds, and hopefully have a chance to catch a fish.'
He adds that fishing isn't just relaxing—it's also nutritious.
'We also do it to catch a meal. There's a real satisfaction in battling nature and bringing something home to the table,' he said.
Families and first timers are expected to head down to local docks and lakes this weekend. The Saskatchewan Fish Hatchery in Fort Qu'Appelle is offering a special program to help beginners get started.
'We've got seven rods and tackle boxes available to borrow for free,' said Rachel Birns, Program Support Officer at the Hatchery. 'All you have to do is check in with our fishing technician on site, bring your own bait, and enjoy the day.'
The gear was donated by the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, with the goal of making fishing accessible to everyone—especially those who might not want to invest in equipment just yet.
'It's a really good opportunity for those who have never tried it before,' Birns added. 'If they like it, maybe they'll purchase a licence and keep going. If not, they haven't spent a dime.'
The Ministry of Environment's initial goal of promoting outdoor activity and encouraging more people to explore Saskatchewan's world-class fish and lakes is still in full-effect 36 years later.
For more information on fishing regulations, visit the provincial government's website, or download the Anglers Guide.
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