Fish have also been a major source of food for people and some Manitobans continue to use fish as a source of food for their families. Using fish as food is especially important in northern communities as it saves these families valuable money that is needed for other necessities. Some people rely on fishing for income to support their families. Still other people enjoy fishing as a stress relieving leisure activity. Businesses that support all of these activities, by processing and selling fish, selling fishing equipment like nets and hooks, or offering services, such as fuel, accommodations or guides, also benefit by providing indirect jobs and income which support other Manitobans.
Society also benefits from using the fisheries resource in less obvious ways.
Recreational fishing also offers the opportunity for families of all types to connect and grow in a healthy environment. The presence of a healthy fish resource is one indicator of a healthy environment. At times, additional uses are made of fisheries resources. For example, we use some of Manitoba's major rivers to generate hydroelectric power, irrigate agricultural crops and water livestock. Our lakes and rivers provide drinking water for communities and recreational opportunities such as boating, water skiing and swimming.