Council Approves One-Year Trial for Fishing in Kinsmen Park

Martensville City Council approved a one-year pilot project during their April 21st meeting that will see trout stocked in Kinsmen Park Lake for the 2026 season.
The request came from the Kinsmen Club of Martensville, who initially brought the idea to Council in January, following which it was sent to Administration for further review before coming back for a decision.
After looking into it, Administration supported moving forward with a one-year trial, noting there were a few important things to consider first.
One of the main factors was the lake’s role in the City’s stormwater system because all of Martensville’s ponds are connected and rely on water flowing between them to function properly. Administration confirmed that adding fish wouldn’t require any barriers or grates that could interfere with that flow.
Safety was another concern brought up. Right now, there aren’t any designated fishing areas, docks, or signage at the lake, which could pose risk to the public, so Administration recommended that signage be installed prior to the season stating that fishing is at the user’s own risk.
The City also checked in with the Water Security Agency of Saskatchewan, who noted that would be low concern about trout making their way to the South Saskatchewan River due to water flow between ponds being low other than during spring runoff and heavy rain events.
The one-year trial will line up with the City’s Stormwater Master Plan, which is expected to be completed in 2026. Once completed, the City will have a better understanding of any long-term impacts before deciding whether to continue the program.
If the trial goes well, the Kinsmen Club has expressed interest in adding features like a dock or designated fishing areas down the road.
Up to four safety signs will need to be installed ahead of the season, at a cost of about $1,000. While that wasn’t originally budgeted, the City will cover it through savings within the Parks department.
Administration will also work with the Kinsmen Club on a communication plan before the program gets underway.