Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/59721
17 CELEBRATING 10th ANNIVERSARY LI'L ANGLER PROGRAM There's nothing like catching your first fish. With Travel Manitoba's Li'l Angler Program, that experience can include an official certificate of achievement and an embroidered crest. For the past 10 years, budding anglers have been getting their first bit of recognition through this program that fosters an appreciation for the pastime. Get your hands on an application and get ready for that big moment. Forms are in the Manitoba Anglers' Guide or online at www.travelmanitoba.com. There is no length requirement and the fish can be any species found in Manitoba. Li'l Angler Program Master Angler Program WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 1. If you're between the ages of 16 and 64, you need a fishing licence. The cost of a regular licence in Manitoba is $19.83. 6 2. You may choose to purchase a Conservation Licence. These licences are a little cheaper ($13.94) and have reduced limits for some species. For example, the limit for walleye on a regular licence is six, while on a Conservation Licence, it's four. 3. If you're 65 and over and have permanently resided in Manitoba for at least six months, you qualify for a Manitoba Resident Seniors Conservation Licence. It's free! Keep in mind that it's valid for a conservation limit of fish only. Manitoba seniors who want a regular limit of fish must buy a regular resident licence. GUARANTEED BRAGGING RIGHTS: MASTER ANGLER Fishing just wouldn't be the same without a little bragging. Okay, a lot of bragging. Get your official bragging rights by landing a Manitoba Master Angler. For over 50 years, Travel Manitoba has been handing out these awards to anglers who catch big fish. Last year alone, more than 10,000 trophy fish from 30 qualifying species were caught and recorded. For every qualifying fish, you'll receive a certificate noting your achievement. If you release that fish, a shoulder patch is included in your package. The good news is that almost 90 per cent of Master Angler catches are returned to the water. That means these big fish are there to fight another day. Check out the Manitoba Anglers' Guide for the species included in the program, how big they need to be to qualify and what you need to do to record your catch. By the end of the season, you'll have the minimum requirements for your favorite species memorized (it's 41 inches or 104 centimetres). 4. Wondering what kind of licence you need – Resident or Nonresident? A resident is a person who has lived in Manitoba for the immediate past six months. A Canadian resident is a person who has lived elsewhere in Canada for the immediate past six months. Any person who has not lived in Manitoba or Canada for the immediate past six months is a nonresident and must purchase a nonresident licence. 5. Who doesn't need a licence? Any youth under the age of 16 who has permanently resided in Manitoba for at least six months doesn't need a licence. Status Indians don't require an angling licence. 6. Keep in mind that your Manitoba Angling Licence is not valid for fishing in Canada's National Parks. You need to buy an additional licence if you plan to fish in Riding Mountain National Park or Wapusk National Park in Manitoba. Contact Parks Canada for details on fishing licences and regulations www.pc.gc.ca 7. Go barbless! In Manitoba, anglers must use barbless hooks. Be sure to squeeze the barbs on your hooks so they are in complete contact with the shaft. FISHING