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EDMONTON – Due to an overwhelmingly high number of requests for fishing licences in Alberta, the government is allowing residents to fish for free this May long weekend.

From May 16 to 19, Albertans will able to cast a line into any lake or river without purchasing a fishing licence.

The move to offer the free fishing weekend comes after Alberta’s online licensing system was unable to keep up with the high volume of requests on Friday.

“I know that the long weekend has gotten off to a frustrating start for many anglers in Alberta,” said Robin Campbell, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development.

“I would personally rather be fishing than standing in a line up or on my computer. That’s why we are going to waive the need for a licence this weekend and let people just start enjoying the outdoors.”

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While licences are not required this weekend, the province says all other fishing regulations will be enforced.