West Virginia Free Fishing Weekend is June 8-9
OutdoorHub 06.05.13
National Fishing and Boating Week 2013 will be highlighted by the 23rd annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 8-9, according to Frank Jezioro, Director of the Division of Natural Resources.
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,” Jezioro said.
The National Fishing and Boating Week concept began as a promotional activity sponsored by the sportfishing industry. The industry promoted fishing around Father’s Day. 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 bring the message home that fishing is great fun and that healthy aquatic ecosystems are important.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) participates in a number of activities during National Fishing and Boating Week and Free Fishing Weekend, Jezioro said. Two of the largest and most successful events are the Bowden Fishing Derby held at the Bowden Hatchery in Randolph County and the Fishing Derby at Little Beaver State Park in Raleigh County. These events will be held on June 8. Children receive basic fishing instruction and will get the opportunity to enjoy time fishing with friends and family.
