Free Fishing Day Coming Up On June 11th

IDAHO FALLS - While kids under the age of 14 always get to fish for free in Idaho, Free Fishing Day is the one time each year when adults too can fish without a license. This year the event falls on Saturday, June 11th. While all other regulations still apply, this incredible opportunity is open to everyone, and you don't even have to be a resident to participate! While everyone gets to fish for free, the real point of the day is to help expose kids and beginning adults to the fun of fishing. All of the official sites will have experienced staff and volunteers on hand to help newcomers get started! Many rivers and reservoirs statewide have been stocked recently to make sure novice anglers will have the best possible shot at a successful first outing. Those taking advantage of free fishing day should remember that all other regulations remain intact and fees are still charged for camping in the state parks. Even though IDFG is glad that Free Fishing Day has become a tradition for many folks, this year it is important that everyone check on times and locations before they head out for the day. According to Jim Fredericks, Regional Fishery Manager, "We stock all our waters in preparation for Free Fish Day, but this year we have changed some of the locations that will be staffed." According to Fredericks, "Were excited that after a decade's absence, that BPOE 1087 (The Elks Club) is going to take the lead on having a clinic at Freeman Park. They've got the go ahead from the city and will screen off an area of the creek. We'll stock it for them with a couple hundred fish and help with the clinic." IDFG staff, volunteers and other natural resources' agencies staff will be on hand at the following fishing spots to help teach youngsters to tie fishing knots, bait hooks, and cast properly. All the sites will have loaner poles to help kids get started, along with a generous supply of worms for bait. Many sites will also have give away items and drawings for fishing related prizes for kids. It is important that a parent or guardian accompany all children. Adults and single-parent families are strongly encouraged to come and learn more about our proud national fishing heritage. Idaho Falls Willow Creek in Freeman Park 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. - NEW Roberts Roberts Gravel Pond 9:00 a.m. to noon Rexburg - Rexburg City ponds west of fair grounds - 9:00 a.m. to noon Teton Valley - Trail Creek Pond - Southeast of Victor - 9:00 a.m. - noon Island Park - Mill Creek Pond - 2 miles west of McCrea's Bridge on the Yale- Kilgore Road - 9:00 a.m. - noon Ashton - NO EVENT THIS YEAR DUE TO CONSTUCTION! # 1 OF 1 #