june 9 is free fishing day in idaho

Saturday, June 9 is Free Fishing Day in Idaho, and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game invites veteran and novice anglers of all ages, residents and nonresidents alike, to celebrate the day by fishing anywhere in Idaho without a license.

Though fishing license requirements are suspended for this special day, all other rules, such as limits or tackle restrictions, remain in effect. Free fishing day provides a great opportunity for novices to give fishing a try and perhaps develop it into a life-long pursuit. Parents are encouraged to bring their children out for a day of fun fishing excitement.

Lack of fishing experience is no excuse. At special locations around the state, equipment will be available for use, and fishing experts will be on hand to help novice anglers learn the ins and outs of fishing. In addition, all these locations will be stocked with hatchery rainbow trout prior to the special day. Look for the nearest event listed below, and "Take a Kid Fishing."

Events will be announced as they are set.

Southwest Region: For more information call 208-634-8137 in McCall or 208-465-8465 in Nampa.

Boise - Parkcenter Pond, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Boise - McDevitt Pond, 8 a.m. to noon.

Cascade - Fischer Pond, 10 a.m. to 2:30p.m.

Council - Council Park Pond (a.k.a. Ol' McDonald Pond), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Eagle - Merrill Pond, 9 a.m. to noon.

Emmett - Ed's Pond, 9 a.m. to noon.

Horseshoe Bend - Mill Pond, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Idaho City - Visitor Center Pond, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lake Lowell - Gotts Point at the west end of Greenhurst Avenue, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lowman - 10-mile Ponds, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

McCall - Rowland (Scout) Pond, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mountain Home - Legacy Park Pond, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Nampa - Wilson Springs Ponds, 8 a.m. to noon. (A location change: No Free Fishing Day event will be at the Nampa Fish Hatchery across the street from Wilson Springs.)