**** FISHERIES/AQUACULTURE Media Release

People are encouraged to try their hand at fishing during Nova Scotia Sportfishing Weekend, Saturday, June 1, and Sunday, June 2.

Residents and non-residents can fish without a general fishing licence during the annual event.

More than 80,000 people participate in sportfishing each year, making it one of the province’s most popular active outdoor sports. It contributes about $65 million to Nova Scotia’s economy each year.

The licence-free weekend will also include numerous fishing derbies. A list of those and other derbies happening this season can be found at https://novascotia.ca/fish/documents/TroutDerby2019.pdf

All anglers are reminded to put safety first and to use flotation devices when on the water.

During the regular season, sportfishing requires a fishing licence that can be purchased at Department of Lands and Forestry offices or at any of the following locations, https://novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing/licensing-permits/

Although a licence is not required on free sportfishing weekend, all bag limits and other regulations still apply. Regulations and more information on sportfishing in Nova Scotia can be found at http://novascotia.ca/fish .