At BC Family Fishing, we’re dedicated to protecting the future of fishing in British Columbia. We believe that preserving our fisheries isn’t just about fish; it’s about ensuring the land, water, and communities tied to them thrive. Through education, hands-on projects, and partnerships, we aim to make sure that future generations can enjoy fishing like we do today.
Educating the Next Generation
One of the most important parts of our work is getting kids involved. We’ve teamed up with schools across BC to bring fishing into classrooms. But we don’t just talk about fish—we dive deep into the science behind healthy ecosystems, the role fisheries play in local economies, and how students can take action to protect what they love.
In the past, we’ve organized fishing trips for school groups, giving kids a chance to experience what it’s like to cast a line and hook a fish for the first time. These trips often spark lifelong interest, and they’re not just fun—they help teach respect for nature. Kids leave knowing that the future of fishing rests in their hands.
Collaborating with Non-Profits
Preserving fisheries isn’t something we can do alone. That’s why we’ve partnered with other non-profits that share our vision. Together, we’ve worked on habitat restoration projects, river cleanups, and public awareness campaigns. By combining our resources, we can tackle bigger projects that make a real impact.
In one recent project, we helped restore a local stream that had been heavily polluted. While it was a long process, the results speak for themselves. Fish have returned to the area, and local wildlife is thriving once again. It’s projects like this that remind us why we do what we do.
Working With Indigenous Communities
Indigenous communities have a deep connection to the land and waters in BC, and we make it a priority to learn from them and work alongside them. Their traditional knowledge plays a crucial role in how we approach our projects. By listening and collaborating, we’ve been able to ensure that our work benefits everyone.
In one instance, we partnered with an Indigenous group to protect a sacred fishing site. The project wasn’t just about fish; it was about preserving a cultural tradition that’s been passed down for generations. By working together, we were able to protect both the environment and a vital piece of BC’s heritage.
Working With Government Agencies
Government policies play a huge role in the health of our fisheries, so we make it a point to work closely with local, provincial, and national agencies. We’ve sat in on countless meetings, offering our insights and pushing for policies that protect our waters. Sometimes that means advocating for stricter fishing regulations, while other times we push for better protection of spawning grounds.
A few years ago, we worked with the provincial government to secure protection for a critical salmon habitat. It took time, effort, and more than a few meetings, but in the end, we saw the area get the protection it deserved. These efforts aren’t always easy, but they’re necessary to ensure long-term success.
Building Strong Communities
Fishing isn’t just about fish. It’s about people, too. That’s why a big part of what we do revolves around building strong, connected communities. We organize fishing events that bring families together, creating spaces where people can bond, share stories, and pass on traditions.
One of our annual events, Family Fishing Day, has grown year after year. What started as a small gathering has turned into one of the highlights of our calendar. Families from all over BC come together, and it’s not just about fishing—it’s about connecting with each other and nature. It’s proof that fishing has the power to unite people.
Advocating for Policy Changes
We don’t shy away from policy issues. We know that change happens in the halls of government, so we’re often there advocating for better regulations. Whether it’s tighter fishing laws, better monitoring of fish populations, or securing funding for habitat restoration, we’re always pushing for what’s best for BC’s fisheries.
One of our recent victories involved lobbying for a moratorium on a practice that was harming fish populations. It wasn’t an easy battle, but after months of working with other stakeholders, we made it happen. The outcome was a major win for fish conservation, and it’s the kind of success that keeps us motivated.
Engaging With the Public
Public engagement is crucial to our work. We want people to care about fisheries as much as we do, so we’ve worked hard to raise awareness. Through social media, workshops, and public events, we keep people informed about what’s happening with BC’s waters and what they can do to help.
A few years ago, we launched a campaign to raise awareness about pollution in a local river. The response was overwhelming. Not only did we see more people get involved in clean-up efforts, but the campaign also brought attention to the issue at a governmental level. It was a prime example of how a well-run public campaign can make a real difference.
Restoring Habitats
Healthy fish need healthy habitats. A large part of our work focuses on restoring rivers, streams, and lakes so that fish populations can thrive. This involves everything from removing invasive species to planting vegetation that stabilizes riverbanks.
One of our long-term projects involves restoring a series of streams that were damaged by industrial activity. It’s a massive undertaking, but we’ve already seen signs of progress. Fish are returning, and local ecosystems are starting to bounce back. These types of projects show that with enough care and effort, we can bring even the most damaged areas back to life.
Looking Toward the Future
Our work is never done. Every day brings new challenges, but it also brings new opportunities to make a difference. Whether it’s through education, advocacy, or direct action, BC Family Fishing will continue to fight for the future of our fisheries.
Looking ahead, we’re focused on expanding our education programs and working with more schools across the province. We’re also planning new partnerships with other non-profits and government bodies to tackle larger, more ambitious projects.
Fishing in BC is more than just a pastime—it’s a way of life. And as long as we’re around, we’ll do everything we can to make sure it stays that way.