Have a little free time on your hands? Grab a friend or family member and try some free fishing. Thanks to the Fish and Boat Commission the only thing you’ll have to spend is some quality time together.

The PFBC has designated May 26, and June 3, as Fish For Free Days in the Commonwealth. Fish For Free Days allow anyone-- not just license holders or youth under the age of 16-- to legally fish in Pennsylvania.

From 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on both days, no fishing license is needed to fish in Pennsylvania's waterways. Fish For Free Days provide an opportunity for active anglers to introduce a friend or relative to the lifelong sport of fishing. Best of all, it's a good time and a fun way to spend a day with the entire family.

The May 26 Fish For Free Day was specifically designated to coincide with the Memorial Day weekend, a traditional time for families to gather, and the unofficial start of many outdoor recreational activities in the state. The June 3 date is part of the observation of National Fishing and Boating Week, June 2-10.

“No other activities can bond a family together quite like fishing and boating. It's a great way for families to have fun, create new memories and spend quality time together. We invite young and old alike to Fish For Free and discover just how much fun it can be. Fish For Free Days provide the perfect chances to get started,” said PFBC Executive Director Douglas Austen.

To make it even easier to get started, or restarted, in fishing visit the PFBC’s website at Fishing Fundamentals.

There, you can find a list of Family Fishing Programs that provide fun, friendly hands-on instruction for anglers of all ages. Or you delve further into the website to learn more about basic fishing equipment (including a list of sites where you can borrow fishing tackle free of charge), locate fishing destinations nearby and information on the types of fish you may catch.

While license requirements are waived for these special days, all other regulations such as fishing seasons, the minimum sizes for keeping certain fish, and the limit on the number you may take still apply.

5/18/2007