Emerson Lake in High River may seem extra fishy as of late.

On Friday, May 3, the Town of High River, in collaboration with the Alberta Conservation Association (ACA), restocked Emerson Lake with 1400 Rainbow Trout and 200 Brown Trout.

This annual initiative not only enhances recreational fishing opportunities in the area, but also helps to preserve natural habitats, ensure that native species thrive, and help maintain the ecological balance of lakes and other bodies of water.

While they restock the pond every year, the Town is reminding people not to release domestic Goldfish or any other domestic water, plant, animal, or fish into rivers, lakes, or storm ponds.

Goldfish may seem harmless, but as a non-native species, they threaten the health and stability of lakes and their surrounding ecosystems, because they multiply rapidly and often eat plants, insects, fish eggs, and other small fish species.

Goldfish can also grow upwards of 14 inches and can weigh up to three pounds.

While fishing is allowed at Emerson Lake, anyone between the ages of 16 and 65 wanting to toss in a line will still need a valid Alberta Sportfishing License and follow all regulations around fishing.

To see the fishing regulations and to get a fishing license, visit AlbertaRELM.

To see a map of stocked lakes in Alberta, click here.