June 19, 2026
Young angler Clayton A. caught the second-longest fish, a largemouth bass, during last year's RRCA Family Fishing Afternoon.
The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is hosting its 25th annual Family Fishing Afternoon on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the mouth of Gray’s Creek, just south of Gray’s Creek Conservation Area. The event takes place during Ontario’s licence-free fishing week and offers families an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while learning about local fish species and recreational fishing.
“Family Fishing Afternoon has become a summer tradition for many local families, and we are excited to mark the event’s 25th year,” says Claudia Munafo, RRCA’s Public Information Coordinator. “Whether participants are casting a line for the first time or returning as experienced young anglers, the event offers a fun and educational way to connect with nature and learn more about the fish that inhabit our local waterways.”
Children and youth aged 16 and under can take part in a friendly fishing competition for a chance to win prizes. Throughout the afternoon, RRCA staff will assist participants with identifying and measuring their catches while sharing information about local aquatic ecosystems and ways to help prevent the spread of invasive species. Seasoned anglers from the Cornwall Lunker Club will also be on hand to offer fishing guidance.
“Fishing equipment, including rods, hooks, bobbers, and bait, will be available to borrow free of charge, while supplies last, through the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters’ TackleShare program,” adds Munafo. “We are grateful for the continued support of our community partners, which also includes Ontario Power Generation, the City of Cornwall, and the River Institute. Their contributions help make this event possible each year.”
Families looking to continue their fishing adventures throughout the summer can take advantage of RRCA’s free fishing equipment lending through the TackleShare program. Fishing gear can be borrowed for up to a week at the marina office building at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area during operating hours. To view current operating hours, visit rrca.on.ca/Marina.
Located at 18045 County Road 2, just east of Cornwall, Gray’s Creek Conservation Area features a marina, boat launch, arboretum tour, nature trails, and a picnic area. Connected to Cornwall’s Riverside Trail bike path, it is a popular local destination for outdoor recreation. For more information visit rrca.on.ca or contact (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.