Skip to content

Go Ice Fishing for FREE Across Alberta Feb 17-19, 2024

FREE Fishing All Weekend Long Across Alberta Feb 15th-17th

Ice fishing, it’s a great way to spend time with the family and best of all, during Alberta Family Fishing Weekend, it’s free – meaning no fishing license is required.

Grab your fishing gear and enjoy some free fishing this weekend with the family!

Alberta Family Fishing Weekend

Taking place over the Family Day Long Weekend, Albertans (and those visiting our awesome province during this time) are invited to give fishing a try on waterbodies with open fishing seasons all across Alberta.

That’s right, no fishing license is required. Of course, all regular fishing regulations apply!

Where to Go Fishing for Free in Alberta

Over 300 waterbodies are stocked annually with rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout or tiger trout.

Some great places include:

  • Gull Lake
  • Wabamun Lake
  • Lake Isle
  • Sylvan Lake
  • Calling Lake
  • Ghost Lake
  • Cold Lake

Details for each location can be found on the Government of Alberta’s site.

Alberta Family Fishing Weekend

Tip for Beginners

Most friends, neighbours and coworkers who loves to fish would be happy to introduce you to the sport! Make plans to go out with them this weekend and learn from someone who knows what they’re doing (and can probably lend you equipment)! Or, take advantage of a Kids Can Catch event.

Get Social

Be sure to share your experience on social media! Here are some tags to help you out:

  • Hashtags: #albertafishing #fishalberta #albertaconservation
    • Related hashtags: #kidscancatch #kidswhofish #kidsfishing #takeakidfishing #kidsthatfish #learntofish #albertamamas
  • Instagram: @alberta_conservation

More Fishing in Alberta

Free fishing weekends take place twice a year, once in February over Family Day long weekend and also in July.

If you don’t have fishing supplies and want to try your hand at ice fishing, consider renting an ice shack. These are usually stocked with everything you need! (Note: if you go any time other than Family Day weekend all adults will require a fishing license.)

Be sure to check out all our winter posts to make the most of this season.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your tackle boxes, warm clothes, hot drinks and grab your fishing rods because this fun family activity is worth it!

Can you make this article better?

We’re always looking to improve! Have you noticed a spelling or information error, know of something we left out, or would like to share anything else, reach out to us!