Fishing Allowed In Some Areas Of Brant County Amid COVID-19

Sunday, 26 April 2020 08:51

Locations like the Art Cadman Burford Lions Park are among the fishing areas that are permitted, but the County recommends to only use these areas if it's safe to do so and when physical distancing can be maintained.

BRANT COUNTY - The County of Brant says fishing is allowed but only in areas that are open to the public.

Director of Parks and Facilities Kathy Ballantyne says these areas include the Art Cadman Burford Lions Park.

"County spaces that have suitable public access to local waterways include Art Cadman Burford Lions Park, as well as Optimist, Lions and Bean Parks in Paris. The Mt. Pleasant Nature Park ponds are also a good location for beginners. Penman's Dam should be avoided at this time as spring flooding repairs have not been completed as of yet. If you plan to go fishing, please be knowledgeable about the rules and regulations as set out by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and practice physical distancing to keep our community healthy."

There are many locations along the Grand and Nith Rivers, as well as Whiteman's Creek that people tend to go to for fishing and it is recommend by the County these be used if only it is safe to do so and when physical distancing can be maintained.

Weather conditions can lead to quick changes to river flows and levels and these areas can be become slippery and hazardous. People are asked to check local weather forecasts and river flows before they head out. These forecasts can be found on the Grand River Conservation Authority's website.

Residents can also find rules and regulations for fishing here. Obtaining a valid fishing license, the species, size and number of fish you can keep, plus what you can use for bait and tackle is among the information you can find.

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) owns and manages a number of inland waterbodies, including reservoirs and much of the land surrounding these major reservoirs. All of the properties owned and managed by the GRCA are currently closed and may not be used for local waterways.

The County adds the federal, provincial and local governments advise all residents to take actions to stop the spread of COVID-19.

These actions include staying home unless you have to go to work, avoiding all non-essential trips into the community and exercising outside, but staying close to home.

Residents are also being asked that in addition to using trails, to not go to other communities for recreational activities such as fishing.