Manitobans will be allowed to go ice fishing without an angling license this coming weekend. 

Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced today that Winter Family Fishing Weekend runs February 18th to 20th. 

"Everyone can enjoy ice fishing for free this weekend without requiring an angling license," says Nesbitt. "There's no better way to spend a winter day in Manitoba than ice fishing with family and friends, while also enjoying free admission to provincial parks during the month of February."

The exception for this weekend is national parks where a federal angling license is still required. 

In Portage la Prairie, the most popular ice fishing spot is just north of the community in the Delta Beach area. People on the lake this year report good conditions and plenty of fish if you find the right spot and have some luck.

Anglers may retain up to a conservation license limit of fish, which includes four walleye/sauger, four northern pike, two smallmouth bass, one lake trout, one channel catfish and two stocked trout. Regular limits apply for those who already have a regular angling license and all other angling regulations apply during this weekend, including regulations for individual waters.

Wade Duncan from MacDonalds Sporting goods notes that this season has been more than ideal for ice fishing. 

"It's slowed down a little bit in February, but for the most part, people have been doing pretty well. The weather has been good. So, we can't complain about that."

He also mentions that he has quite a few favourite places to fish around Portage, besides Delta Beach. He says Rock Lake, Stephenfield, Lake of the Prairies, and Lake Winnipeg are also very popular this time of year. 

He makes sure to note that when heading out onto any sort of ice, you should always keep two things in mind. 

"Be careful of the ice conditions because it's not always what it appears, and make sure you pick up your garbage."

wade

For more information on all provincial angling regulations, refer to the 2022 Manitoba Anglers' Guide at www.manitobafisheries.com.

To ensure ice fishing is safe and enjoyable, anglers should always check ice conditions before travelling onto ice, wear weather-appropriate clothing and advise someone where they will be fishing.

Dave Van Deynze ice fishingPCI Trojans hockey head coach Dave Van Deynze loves trying his luck when he has some free time