Celebrate Free Fishing Day This Saturday

Stephanie Salinas, 512-389-8756, stephanie.salinas@tpwd.texas.gov

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AUSTIN— The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is beginning summer park festivities with free fishing day this Saturday as part of National Fishing and Boating Week.  On June 7, Texans can fish on any public waters in the state without a fishing license.

Fishing events this Saturday include:

National Fishing Day- Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens

  • Families can compete for prizes in a catfishing tournament in the TFFC casting pond. Anglers may fish as individuals or as teams with an adult assisting a child. In addition to fishing, attendees can hike the wetlands trail, see a diver hand feed a fish, watch an alligator feeding and learn about the history of fishing at the freshwater fishing museum. Admission is free for children 12 and under.

Family Fishing - Ray Roberts Lake State Park- Isle Du Bois Unit in Pilot Point

  • Families will learn the basics of fishing through hands-on activities. Equipment and bait will be provided, but families are also welcome to bring their own. Registration begins at 9 a.m.

Annual LBJ Fishing Day - Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site in Stonewall

  • This fishing clinic is open to the whole family and will feature bank fishing from the shore of the Pedernales River. This two-hour workshop begins at 10 a.m. and continues until noon.

Fishing with a Ranger - Martin Creek Lake State Park in Tatum

  • Learn the basics of traditional fishing with the assistance of a park ranger at Martin Creek Lake State Park. Participants will learn how to tie a hook on a line, cast a rod and reel, and identify fish. All necessary equipment will be provided, but families are welcome to bring their own.

Even though a fishing license is not required, state park entrance fees still apply.

Remember, fishing is free in Texas state parks all year. Whether it is from a bank, pier, river, creek, coast line or boat; if the water body is fully contained within a state park, fishing licenses are not needed.

To find places to go fishing, visit the TPWD fishing page. For bag limits and other regulations, see the Outdoor Annual online.