On line fishing licenses

Getting permission to catch the big one just got a little easier.

A new e-licensing system has been set up by the Ministry of Environment.

Okanagan-Vernon MLA, Tom Christensen, says the new system gives fishers many options on how they purchase a license for freshwater fishing.

"The fishing at the over 100 lakes that surround Vernon provides great opportunities to get out and enjoy our natural environment. I'm happy to see an efficient system that gives freshwater anglers multiple options in how and what license they purchase. Getting out and enjoying the exceptional fishing our community has to offer just got easier," says Christensen.

He says under the new licensing system, anglers can purchase a basic freshwater fishing license, classified water permit or conservation stamps through any computer with Internet access.

“During the transition period anglers can still purchase traditional paper licenses from their favourite tackle shop. In addition to giving anglers greater choice and flexibility about how they obtain licenses, the new system will greatly improve the efficiency of the freshwater licensing system and provide government with better information about recreational effort and angler preferences.”

Christensen says the information will be used to help ensure that recreational fishing programs and lake and stream stocking activities are tailored to meet angler demand.