Education Programs & Promotion

Learn to Fish (L2F)

One of the department’s most popular activities is the interactive Learn to Fish (L2F) program. Learn to Fish teaches children the basics of sportfishing, along with ethics and environmental stewardship.

Held annually in the spring and summer since 2006, the L2F program has taught more than 15,000 youth from a variety of backgrounds introductory angling skills. The program is geared towards youth in Grade 4 through high school. L2F programs are presented to schools, Cubs, Scouts, Girl Guides, 4-H groups, and youth at recreation day camps.

L2F is made possible with the help of numerous volunteers and angling associations, and is delivered by department staff and volunteers. The program consists of two main components: classroom presentations and outdoor lessons. Classroom presentations consist of an introduction to freshwater sportfish in Nova Scotia, habitat characteristics, basics of tackle, assembling a fishing rod, safety, ethics and respect, and health benefits from outdoor recreation. Outdoor lessons consist of a hands-on sportfishing workshop at a nearby lake or pond, which is stocked with trout by one of our provincial hatcheries.

The L2F program prepares the next generation of aquatic stewards by teaching safe and ethical angling skills to youth. The popularity of the program, and positive feedback from students and teachers, means organizers are busy planning for the next session. Much of the equipment used for the L2F program is available thanks to contributions from sponsors. If you would like to sponsor the L2F program, please contact Sabrina Wolthers.

To download free program material:

Learn To Fish Program Video

Watch the Video

Contact

Sabrina Wolthers
Sportfish Development Officer
Phone: (902) 485-7021
Email: Sabrina.Wolthers@novascotia.ca


Community Learn to Fish (L2F)

Do you and your family want to learn the basics of sportfishing? Come out to one of our Community L2F events – we will provide the fishing gear and introduce you to freshwater sportfish in Nova Scotia. Volunteers will demonstrate how to assemble basic tackle, cast with both open and closed-face reels, and properly release or keep your catch to take home.

The amount of fishing gear is limited, so please arrive early to sign up. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Eye protection will be provided and must be worn at all times and provided if participants do not have their own.

For more information or if interested in having a learn to fish in your community, please e-mail Sabrina.Wolthers@novascotia.ca


Becoming an Outdoors - Woman® (BOW)

The Inland Fisheries Division supports the Becoming an Outdoors - Woman® (BOW) program. This workshop primarily aimed at women but is an opportunity for anyone 18 years or older to learn outdoor skills - skills usually associated with fishing and hunting, but useful for many outdoor pursuits. Learn More

Tackle Share

The Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture has partnered with Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources to offer access to fishing equipment (rods, tackle, swivels, spinners, hooks, sinkers and bobbers) at six provincial parks across the province.

This program allows park campers and visitors to borrow equipment, purchase a fishing license and have a relaxing day by the water. If you would like to give sportfishing a try, please visit the main office of the park.

Participating parks include:

  • Mira River
  • Bolyston
  • Dollar
  • Laurie
  • Smiley's
  • Ellenwood