Manitoba offering free fishing, provincial park access during spring break

People out skiing at Birds Hill Provincial Park in this undated image. (Source: Josh Crabb/CTV News)

The Manitoba government is encouraging families to get outside and enjoy nature over spring break.

On Thursday, the province announced it is offering free fishing and provincial park entry from March 27 to April 5.

This means Manitobans can fish without an angling licence, but still need to follow all possession limits, size restrictions and any other regulations that apply to specific waters. Federal angling licences are still required in national parks.

It also means Manitobans can visit provincial parks free of charge.

“Spring break is a perfect time to enjoy Manitoba’s outdoors and removing the cost barrier helps more people do just that,” said Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie in a news release.

“I encourage Manitobans to explore our parks, try fishing, and enjoy the beauty of our province while always staying safe and checking ice conditions before heading out.”

Free provincial park entry will continue throughout April.

Anglers are warned to use caution when fishing on ice and are reminded to check the conditions before heading out.