alafarmnews

Free Fishing Day Events
Scheduled Throughout State

Each calendar year, the Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources designates a "Free Fishing Day" for the public to fish recreationally in public waters without a fishing license. Saturday, June 10, 2006, had been designated as this year’s Free Fishing Day. Approved by the Alabama Legislature, the law allows an annual free day of fishing when residents and non-residents may fish without a fishing license.

"Free Fishing Day is offered to introduce non-anglers to the sport of fishing and to remind former anglers of the fun they’ve been missing," said Stan Cook, Chief of Fisheries with the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division. "It’s a good time to pass on the tradition of a family fun day of fishing to Alabama’s youth." There is an exemption of the usual fishing license requirement on that day. Some lakes may still require fees and permits, and owner’s permission is required to fish private ponds.

Several events, sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division in conjunction with local supporters, are planned around the state as a part of Free Fishing Day. These special fishing events, held during National Fishing Week, June 3-11, provide opportunities for families and friends to share fun and quality time together while learning about one of our nation’s favorite pastimes.

Coleman Lake, Calhoun County – for youth 15 and younger – contact Leslie Hodge, U.S. Forest Service, 256-463-2272.

12th Annual Westside Bass Club Kids’ Fishing Event – Lake Lurleen State Park, Tuscaloosa County – for youth 15 and younger – 8 a.m. until noon –contact Orlando Harris, 205-553-6876.

10th Annual Take a Kid Fishing event – Memorial Park Lake, Jasper, Walker County – for all youth – 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. –– Alabama Crappie Association – contact Mike Tubbs, fisher848@bellsouth.net.

Kids’ Fishing Derby in Andalusia – at the ponds by the Health Department – for youth 15 and younger – contact Mark Garner, 334-222-2555.

14th Annual Fishing Rodeo – Auburn Technology Park South Lake – for youth 12 and younger with an adult (adult fee $5) – 8 a.m. until noon – contact Alison Hall, Auburn Parks and Recreation, 334-501-2940.

Lee King Benefit Buddy Tournament for Kids – Lakepoint State Park – 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. – for youth 15 and younger – contact Sam Williams, 334-687-6266.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. For more information about community fishing events, visit www.outdooralabama.com.