Fun on the Water

LOOKING TO CRACK A LOBSTER?

Settin’ Day (the first day of lobster season) typically falls in mid-spring, so many of us are able to enjoy the first feed of the season by Mother’s Day weekend.

MIDDLE RIVER | PHOTO: LIZ WILSON

In the summer, Pictou County boaters and watercraft enthusiasts come out to play. Boats of all kinds, kayaks, paddle boards, canoes and jet skis can be seen gracing our waterways – there are even cardboard boat races as part of local events, such as the annual Merigomish Family Fest. WHARVES, MARINAS AND LAUNCHES

There are two municipally owned and operated marinas: one in downtown New Glasgow, and the Hector Quay Visitors Marina in downtown Pictou. The largest marina in our area is the privately run Pictou Marina, located at the mouth of Pictou Harbour. The marina houses a service repair facility and is home to the Pictou Yacht Club which supports recreational sailing and yachting. There are a variety of other wharves, private and small non-motorized watercraft launches throughout the community including Caribou (where the PEI ferry is located), Pictou Landing, Cape John and Toney River. There are several local retailers serving all of your nautical needs.

MUST-SEE EVENT The modified boat races in the Pictou Harbour as part of the Pictou Lobster Carnival never disappoint. STAYING SAFE ON THE WATER

Water safety is an important part of life in a coastal community. It’s always important to be prepared when heading out on the water, either on a watercraft or for a swim. This includes wearing a proper personal flotation device and following the rules of the waterways. As well, being informed about swimming in the ocean and what to do in the event of a riptide is an essential piece of enjoying a dip in the ocean. DID YOU KNOW? You can take lifesaving courses at the YMCA of Pictou County and the Pictou Fisheries Training pool. FISHING IN PICTOU COUNTY

For decades, commercial fishing has been one of the primary industries in Pictou County, offering some of the freshest seafood – from mackerel and salmon, to scallops, mussels, lobster and more.

Sport fishing is also a popular activity in Pictou County, with our waters offering some of the most sought-after sportfish – from brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon and striped bass. You can enjoy fly fishing, spin fishing and ice fishing. LICENSED AND READY TO FISH

Anyone 16 years of age and older requires a licence for fresh-water fishing. Licences can be purchased from vendors in the community or through Access Nova Scotia. You do not need a licence to fish in tidal or salt water in Nova Scotia. However, you must respect Canadian federal and provincial fishing seasons, bag limits and gear restrictions.