The only "funny" part of taking some sort of test/ semiar to obtain a fishing license is that people always assume that because a certain thing has been happening without testing for "hundreds of years" that changes are not necessary. I am not trying to say that a fishing test is the best solution but it is obvious that there is a huge problem in Alberta with our fishing situation and something has to be done. Saying that any kid can grab a stick and hook and chuck it out there is the problem. Is that really how we want our kids to be fishing. Education about habitats and conservation and the environment in general is as vital as anything to the survival of Alberta fishing. Just because we live in a free country does not mean that there are should not be stipulations and preservatory measures put in place to help ensure that generations that follow will enjoy the same opportunities that we do.

On another thought, I glanced at the regulations and it says that non-Alberta residents, Canadians, pay the same for a licence as Albertans do. That is just plain stupid. Period.

Brad