This long weekend is an opportunity to kick off the fishing season.

It is the first free family fish weekend meaning you can head out with no licence and do a little fishing. While children and seniors do not require a licence, this weekend allows everyone to enjoy being outdoors and enjoying one of Alberta's favourite pastimes.

Sheila Campbell, Alberta Conservation Association, says if you have never tried ice fishing it will be a great weekend to give it a whirl.

"It's about getting kids, adults, new Canadians, out there and giving something new a try. It's a pretty neat experience and what more of a Canadian thing to do on the family fishing weekend."

Before you head out take note of regulations surrounding catch and release here and ensure the ice is safe.

The next free family fish weekend will occur in July while 'Kids Can Catch' hosted by the Town of Cochrane/ Canadian Tire/ ATB will take place in June.