State plans fishing, boating events

Sports

June 8, 2009

National Fishing and Boating Week 2009 will be highlighted by the 20th annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 13 and 14, according to Frank Jezioro, director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). 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 you will be introducing them to a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment,” said Jezioro.

The National Fishing and Boating Week concept began as a promotional activity sponsored by the sportfishing industry. With the hope of increasing tackle sales, the industry promoted fishing around Father’s Day. The recreational boating industry partnered with its sportfishing counterparts to develop an effective educational campaign.

From those beginnings, NFBW has evolved into one of the largest private/public partnerships in existence. The sportfishing and boating industries, fishing organizations, and local, state and federal agencies are working together to bring the message home that fishing is great fun and that healthy aquatic ecosystems are important.

DNR participates in a number of activities during week and the free weekend, said Jezioro. 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 13. 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. Contact the DNR district office closest to you for more information.