In an effort to reel new anglers into the hobby, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife will be hosting two statewide Free Fishing Days in the coming weeks, starting this weekend.
Free Fishing Days will be held on July 5 and Aug. 30, according to CDFW. No licenses will be required to cast a line into California’s lakes, rivers and streams.
“For those new to fishing, this is a chance to explore a rewarding and exciting new hobby,” the agency said in a written statement. “For licensed anglers, this is a chance to introduce or reintroduce someone else to the joys of becoming an angler. Free fishing days are also a perfect time for former anglers to return and reconnect to the activity.”
Normally, children 15 and younger are permitted to fish for free, while older anglers are required to obtain a fishing license. Licenses can be purchased on either a daily or annual basis.
“Free Fishing Days offer a time when families and friends can experience the hobby together,” according to the statement.
Funds generated by the licenses help support wildlife conservation efforts.
Freshly stocked lakes
Ahead of California’s prime fishing season, CDFW officials have been busy stocking dozens of California bodies of water with “catchable-size” trout.
Recently stocked locations include Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County, Stoney Creek in Tulare County, Shaver Lake in Fresno County, Silver Lake in Amador County, Lake Almanor in Plumas County and Burney Creek in Shasta County.
Other fishing regulations remain in place
While licenses will be waived during Free Fishing Days, other fishing regulations will still be enforced, officials said.
They include bag and size limits, gear restrictions, report card requirements, fishing hours and stream closures.
More information on ruled and regulations can be found online at https://wildlife.ca.gov/regulations.
Information on inland fishing sites and species can be found at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Inland.
“It’s a great excuse to relax next to a beautiful lake or river and enjoy the great outdoors, and you might go home with tasty fish to throw on the grill,” the statement said.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: CA wildlife officials offering Free Fishing Days in July, August: See dates, stocked lakes
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
