A Portrait of James Scissons. He is wearing a blue and white Cabela's ballcap.

A few years ago, Keep Canada Fishing began to receive several donations to our Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Days program, which exists to introduce young people to the joys of recreational fishing. Each of these donations mentioned James Scissons.

We came to learn that James was a dairy farmer and passionate angler. On April 16, 2021, his life was tragically cut short at the age of 22 due to an accident on the land for which he cared so deeply.

James spent most of his days working on the family farm and spent his off hours fishing with his friend Kyle.

James’ mother tells us that he was a kind and patient young man who loved introducing kids to fishing: “I remember Kyle telling me that his stepson Reese was fishing with Kyle and James all day and never got a bite. James caught a fish and got Reese to reel it in and get his picture taken. Reese was so happy and proud. This is just one example of the young man James was.”

James embodied what it means to be an angler and outdoorsman. We are committed to honouring his legacy through the James Scissons Memorial Fishing Giveaway. Please stay tuned for a special week-long fishing giveaway in memory of James and his passion for the outdoors.