Hobbyists avail of chance to recreational fishing at Burnham Lake

Applications for fishing license have started trickling in at the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) after the office announced it is opening Burnham Park Lake to recreational fishing beginning June 13.

Supervising Administrative Officer Sandra Almag said that as of June 16, the office has processed at least two fishing permits with one year validity and three permits for single sessions.

The office has also been receiving numerous inquiries from hobbyist anglers both residents and non-residents.

As per the CEPMO’s guidelines, applicants must secure the necessary License/Permit from their office before conducting any fishing activity at Burnham Lake.  The license is valid for one year for residents and is non-transferable.

They must be residents of Baguio City and must have basic knowledge in fishing to avoid any untoward incident both to the person and the fish at the lake. 

Fishing will be under a catch-and-release policy. 

Children below 18 years of age must be accompanied by a guardian.

They must bring their own fishing gear (e.g. fishing rod, bait and bucket) 

Only 10 persons are allowed to fish at a time at the designated fishing area for a maximum of 2 hours per person per day. 

They must observe health and safety protocols. 

Residents outside Baguio City and tourists must secure a permit per fishing session.

Violations such as tampering and/or illegal use of the license/permit shall be a ground for cancellation and non-approval of fishing activity.

Clean as you go policy will be enforced.  Do not leave any litter in the area.

The City Government of Baguio is not liable for any untoward incident that may occur at the Lake due to the fault of the fishing enthusiast. – Aileen P. Refuerzo