MWF using the universal appeal of fishing to help new Canadians connect with nature

The Manitoba Wildlife Federation is using the universal appeal of fishing to help new Canadians connect with nature, while building community relations. Led by Chris Benson, the MWF’s program and events coordinator, the initiative includes a series of free learn-to-fish events aimed at introducing immigrants and newcomers to the province’s fishing traditions.

In partnership with Regional Connections Immigration Services and other community groups, the program aims to remove barriers to participation and promote conservation through hands-on education. “The province provides a group fishing licence for the day, and we supply the equipment, instruction and lunch,” Benson says.

Over the past two years, events have been held in Morris and Rosenort along the Red River, as well as at Stephenfield Provincial Park. Each outing drew approximately 25 participants, spanning a wide range of ages and cultural backgrounds. For many, it was their first time fishing.

“One young angler caught a northern pike, drawing an excited crowd,” Benson says. “We used it as an opportunity to demonstrate how to clean and fillet a fish, then cooked it on site as part of a shared meal.”

Alongside basic angling instruction, the program emphasizes local regulations, including species limits and slot sizes. According to Benson, this educational component is essential, especially for people unfamiliar with Canada’s conservation laws. “There can be confusion around the rules due to language barriers or practices from participants’ home countries,” he says. “These events give us a chance to clarify expectations and promote responsible fishing.”

Benson says the initiative has also fostered stronger ties among communities. “There’s a real sense of connection—people sharing food, learning about each other’s cultures, and discovering a Canadian pastime together.”

Due to growing demand and positive feedback, the MWF now plans to expand the program to reach even more newcomers in the years ahead. Says Benson: “Any opportunity to recruit new people or take people out who have never been out fishing, I’m all over that.”

Learn more about the MWF at www.mwf.mb.ca.