Ice Fishing Event Planned

Stocked with fishing tackle, Idaho Fish and Game's "Take Me Fishing" trailers travel to local waters across the state to promote fishing opportunities. Wrapped with vibrant fish illustrations, they're easy to recognize. The Panhandle Region trailer will be all geared up and ready to go for a "Take Me Ice Fishing" event on Saturday, February 23, at Hauser Lake from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Free hot dogs and hot chocolate will be served while supplies last. Fishing equipment and bait can be checked out free during the event. Fish and Game employees and volunteers will use gas-powered ice augers to drill holes for everyone participating. Kootenai County Parks and Waterways will have the parking lot plowed for vehicles and the restroom facilities ready. Reservations are not needed, but equipment will be checked out on a first-come, first-served basis. If you own ice-fishing gear, it would be helpful for you to bring your own. Last year, there was a short wait for equipment when everything in the Fish and Game fishing trailer was checked out. Participants will not need a license to fish during the hours of the event if they sign in at the fish trailer. However, all other rules such as size limits and species limits do apply. Idaho children 13 years old and under can always fish for free. These events give their parents, older siblings and friends the opportunity to try fishing without first buying a license or equipment. Getting youths excited about fishing will help build a new generation of anglers. The only thing kids and their parents need to do is dress warmly, wear good boots and show up.