Free Fishing Weekend June 9 and 10 as West Virginia Celebrates National Fishing and Boating Week
OutdoorHub 05.31.12
National Fishing and Boating Week 2012 will be highlighted in West Virginia by the 23rd annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 9 and 10, according to Frank Jezioro, Director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR). During these two days, residents and nonresidents can fish in West Virginia without a license.
“It is a great opportunity to remind people of the fun of fishing, especially with family and friends. If you already have a license, take someone fishing. It may be your children, spouse, or co-worker, and introduce them to a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment,” said Jezioro.
The National Fishing and Boating Week began as a promotional activity near Father’s Day by the sportfishing industry. The recreational boating industry partnered with its sportfishing counterparts to develop a fishing and boating educational campaign. From those beginnings, National Fishing and Boating Week has evolved into a very effective private/public partnership. The sportfishing and boating industries, fishing organizations and local, state, and federal agencies work together to promote the message that fishing is great fun and healthy aquatic ecosystems are important.
WVDNR participates in a number of activities during National Fishing and Boating Week and the Free Fishing Weekend,” said Jezioro. Two of the largest and most successful events are the Bowden Fishing Derby, held at the Bowden Hatchery in Randolph County (June 2), and the Fishing Derby at Little Beaver State Park in Raleigh County (June 9). Children receive basic fishing instruction and will get the opportunity to enjoy time fishing with friends and family.
There are other fishing events planned across the state. Please contact the DNR office closest to you for more information.
