Fishing in BC is sitting quietly in the middle of a sun-splashed placid lake and becoming a part of the stillness.

For those who have experienced the peace, broken only by a tug on your line and the excitement of bringing home an evening catch, fishing is as enchanting as it is addictive.

For those who have always wanted to experience this special recreation, a lack of fishing gear has been an impediment, but no longer.

Now, those curious about fishing or anglers keen to share their favourite fishing spots with friends are able to borrow the gear for free.

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has expanded the Go Fish BC! Rod Loan Program to 16 locations throughout British Columbia. There are now 20 rods available to borrow at the Surrey Nature Centre, giving new and visiting anglers an opportunity to experience freshwater fishing in British Columbia.

When people borrow a fishing rod they are also able to benefit from local fishing expertise. In addition to lending rods, Surrey Nature Centre staff are available to share their knowledge about gear, where the best fishing spots are, stocking information and fishing tips and tricks. People are also able to buy their fishing licence when they borrow their gear.

Designed for locals new to fishing, groups such as Scouts and youth groups and visitors who don't own or didn't pack their gear, the Go Fish BC! Rod Loan Program helps make BC's freshwater fishing more accessible in several ways.

Borrowers may present a credit card or leave a small deposit as insurance and rods may be borrowed for up to a week at a time.

Rods and tackle are loaned for free and the deposit is returned when the fishing gear is dropped off. It is recommended interested borrowers call ahead to ensure rod availability.

To borrow a rod and tackle, visit the Surrey Nature Centre at 14255 96 Avenue or call 604-502-6065.

 Information about Rod Loan locations throughout the province is available on the  www.gofishbc.com website in the How to Fish section.