Fishing Season Opens Soon

The traditional opening of fishing season, and the official launch of summer in Idaho, is Saturday May 24. Unless listed under regional exceptions in the rule book, fishing is open on Idaho rivers and streams from May 24 through November 30. Most lakes and reservoirs and ditches and man-made canals are open year round. Family Fishing Waters are also open year round with simplified rules to provide family-oriented fishing opportunities. These are 79 user-friendly waters selected to provide a great fishing trip for families, children and first-time anglers. The simplified rules include a limit of six trout or bass, no limit on other species or on length and standard fishing gear. To find Family Fishing Waters near you check the fishing rules brochure or the Internet at: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/fish/family/. For details on specific locations or your favorite fishing hole, check with local Fish and Game offices or the fishing brochure, available free at license vendors, or visit the Fish and Game Website at: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov. Anglers, to avoid the last minute rush, don't forget to buy a fishing license before the Memorial Day weekend. A regular fishing license costs $25.75 and a junior license costs $13.75. Everyone age 14 or older must have fishing license. Don't forget free fishing day June 7, the one day each year that a fishing license is not required for anyone. Idaho resident children under age 14 never need a fishing license. But all other fishing regulations still apply. And don't forget to ask permission to cross or fish from private land. And be careful of fast-moving waters.