YELLOWKNIFE (March 31, 2015) – Fishing lodge owners, operators, and day-trip angling guides from across the territory were in Yellowknife last week to discuss plans to revitalize the angling sector in the NWT. The workshop hosted by the GNWT’s Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) and NWT Tourism focused on the need for a new approach to marketing and diversifying the NWT’s long standing reputation for world-class fishing adventures.
Tour operators had an opportunity to share input and to review research conducted by ITI and NWT Tourism. While the angling sector has seen a decline in recent years, tourism visitor numbers and spending in the NWT are increasing. Growth in the angling sector will be dependent on attracting a broader demographic of visitors and developing new products. Workshop participants discussed prospects for expanding current markets and breaking into new ones, including young adventurous travellers.
“The health and abundance of our fish stocks, clear waters and pristine wilderness distinguish the NWT experience from those of our competitors,” ITI Minister David Ramsay said. “Our Territory’s competitive edge is that we can offer more than just fishing. Increasingly, visitors want the opportunity to enjoy scenery and wildlife and participate in outdoor adventure and cultural activities. NWT fishing lodges and establishments are well positioned to fill this market demand – and more – with a full inventory of attractions that are unmatched or to be found anywhere else.”
Those attending the workshop also met with officials from various GNWT departments which inspect lodges for such things as employment standards, fire codes, waste disposal, fuel storage and food handling. Overall, feedback from the operators indicated that the workshop was very useful, and there was strong consensus to hold this event on an annual basis
The NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy highlights the importance of growing and broadening the NWT’s tourism product and the 17th Legislative Assembly’s goal of a diversified economy that provides all communities and regions with opportunities and choices.
Media inquiries:
Drew Williams
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: drew_williams@gov.nt.ca