News

:

,

Loyalist Township hosts Family Fishing Day on Amherst Island for first time

A road with a median and lightposts. Houses on the left. Cars in a parking lot for the ferry dock on the right. Trees in the background.
The Amherst Island Ferry Dock where commuters arrive on Amherst Island. Photo by Jack Mead/CJAI.
Ted Evans - CJAI - Stella • ON | 09-05-2023
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on pinterest
Share on email
Share on print

For the first time, Loyalist Township will host a Family Fishing Day Event on Amherst Island this weekend.

Out of the four free fishing periods designated by the Ontario government, Loyalist Township chose to highlight an event on May 13 because it's a perfect time of year for residents to explore and appreciate nature in the area, according to Loyalist Township Mayor Jim Hegadorn. The mayor added that holding this event in May would not interfere with other major events taking place in the area during the other designated free fishing periods.

Industry professionals will be on hand at the event to share water safety tips and information about natural habitats, invasive species, the impact of pollution, and more. Loyalist Township is encouraging families to bring a fishing rod, as well as a personal floatation device for each family member. Hosting the event on Amherst Island will also give many residents of the area a free chance to explore the island on what may be their first trip over on the ferry.

"In this case, in particular, we're able to showcase the upgraded dock behind the Neilson Store Museum and Cultural Centre. It's right on Stella Bay. It's a beautiful location," said Mayor Hegadorn.

Loyalist Township has prepared a free shuttle service to shuttle participants to the ferry and over to the event. Participants can also make their own way to the ferry and board for free as a pedestrian, or pay the fare to bring their own vehicle on board the ferry.

The mayor explained how this type of event is important for residents of Loyalist Township both on the main land, and on Amherst Island.

"Every time that a community can get together, and interact, and enjoy nature, I believe that it's always a positive event and good for the community."

The Family Fishing Day event is free for all-ages and runs from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The remaining free fishing periods this year are as follows:

  • May 13 and 14 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday)
  • June 17 and 18 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday)
  • July 1-9 (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday).

Free fishing participants must fish under the Conservation fishing license limits. These are set out in the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary. Participants also must carry a government issued photo ID which states their name and date of birth.

Listen to the CJAI story below:

Download Audio