Catch the fun on Free Fishing Day June 13

Young anglers will have plenty of opportunity to catch a Free Fishing Day event in the Salmon Region this year, as three fishing derbies are being held on Saturday, June 13.

Kid’s fishing derbies will be held at Kid’s Pond in Salmon (9:00 am to noon), Blue Mountain Meadow Pond in Challis (8:30 am to noon), and the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery in Stanley (10:00 am to 1:00 pm).    

The events are free and open to all youth 16 years old and younger. All young anglers who register are eligible for prizes as supplies last but must be present to collect their prize at the end of the event. A fishing license is not required on Idaho's Free Fishing Day, but all other rules apply.

An equipment checkout station will be available for those needing to borrow a fishing rod and reel. Experienced anglers will also be on hand to assist novice anglers. Since equipment is limited, children are encouraged to bring their own rod and reel if possible. Bait will also be provided.     

The derbies are sponsored by Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the Salmon-Challis National Forest, and the Challis Community Trails Alliance. Multiple local businesses and individuals have generously donated a variety of prizes. For more derby information, contact Brett Kelly with IDFG at 208-756-2271.

Fishing for stocked rainbow trout, particularly in community ponds, is a great way to introduce new anglers to the sport by using simple set-ups like worm/marshmallow combinations or commercial baits like Power Bait or Crave, either near the bottom or below a bobber.  Fish and Game’s Learn to Fish webpage offers diagrams for basic bait rigs and more. 

Keep it fun, short, and simple and the kids will be...hooked.  For other tips, see 10 tips for taking kids fishing. 

Anglers can find more detailed information on Idaho’s fishing destinations including maps, facilities, fish species present, stocking records, and fishing rules by visiting the Fishing Planner.