Gaby Da Silva was looking for a place where she could bond with her children and boyfriend in a fun, outdoor setting when she came across Les Étangs Garand, a park that offered fishing and picnic services in Mont St. Grégoire. When they learned the property was for sale, the couple jumped at the opportunity, bought it and named it Parc Écopêche.

“There’s a natural bonding that happens with parents and kids when they are fishing,” Da Silva said. “For parents, this is a teaching moment and they feel proud when their kids catch something on their own.”

The park officially reopened on April 2 and has two ponds stocked with rainbow trout. The newly renovated fisherman’s house provides equipment, including rods and bait free of charge, and the staff will show you a few fishing techniques. If you do get lucky with a catch, you pay $1 per inch, so a 10-inch fish will cost $10. The staff will clean and gut the fish, and if you want to enjoy your catch on-site, barbecues are available. Families can also bring food and have a picnic.

Parc Écopêche also has a mini petting zoo with rabbits and chicks. When the warmer weather arrives, they also plan to start a garden and eventually sell their produce like lettuce, peppers, cucumbers and watermelon.

Reservations are only required for school trips or day camp outings. During the month of August, the park will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In September and October, the park is open only on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but reservations can be made for school trips or camp outings during weekdays. It is located at 834 Rang Chartier in Mont St. Grégoire.

For more information, call 450-346-8580 or visit ecopeche.ca.