CALGARY - Calgary area residents can borrow fishing gear at no cost this summer, from July 12 to September 2, 2002. The equipment is available for a day or a weekend, through the Fishing Rod Loaner Program offered by Alberta Sustainable Resource Development.

Albertans will learn about responsible fishing when they borrow their angling gear. Free copies of the 2002 Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations will be available for pick-up, along with other information on safe fish handling.

The Fishing Rod Loaner Program presents a chance for families to experience angling together, and is an ideal opportunity for teachers or not-for-profit organizations to take groups out fishing.

The program is being launched just prior to Alberta's free fishing weekend on July 13 and 14, which coincides with National Fishing Week. For those two days, people will be able to experience fishing without obtaining a sportfishing licence. Fishing regulations still apply.

The program is one of several events and programs that Alberta Sustainable Resource Development presents under the "Hooked for Life" banner to educate Albertans about fishing. Many of the rods and reels were confiscated as a result of the department's fish and wildlife enforcement activities. Local fishing retailers and supporters such as the Alberta Conservation Association donated additional tackle and equipment.

Would-be anglers can borrow gear at the "Rod Lodge" in front of the Sam Livingston Fish Hatchery, Pearce Estate Park, 1440 - 17A St. S.E., Calgary. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when signing out equipment for the first time. The Rod Lodge is open on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed Wednesdays and Thursdays) and weekends and holidays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. People can call (403) 708-9577 for information or to reserve equipment. Special arrangements can be made for groups after September 2.

Media contact:

Trevor Rhodes,
Head, Fisheries Management - Southeast Region
Alberta Sustainable Resource Development
Strathmore
403 934-3422