Family Day weekend might be a good chance to try out ice fishing in New Brunswick.

Fish NB Days take place this weekend from Saturday through Monday.

It is one of two weekends when you can fish without a licence or guide, with the other being the first weekend of June.

“Fish NB Days are the perfect opportunity to introduce friends and family to recreational fishing,” said Natural Resources Minister Mike Holland.

“As Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Development, as well as someone with a lifelong love
of fishing, I encourage everyone to try this amazing sport.”

All current catch limits, closures and other restrictions are still in effect, and access to private waters, Crown reserve waters and Crown leases is still restricted.

Before venturing out on the ice this weekend, you need to make sure that it is safe to do so.

The Canadian Red Cross says ice thickness should be at least 15 centimetres for small groups of people.

A minimum of 20 centimetres is needed for larger groups and 25 centimetres for snowmobiles and ATVs.

The organization said the colour of the ice indicates its strength and quality. Blue ice is the strongest, while grey ice is unsafe.

Anglers wishing to retain landlocked salmon from 48 to 63 centimetres (fork length) still require a licence with tags this weekend.

Individuals whose angling privileges have been revoked cannot fish anywhere in the province, including on Fish NB Days.