HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 29) –The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has scheduled several opportunities in May and June for families to learn fishing skills and enjoy fishing.
The PFBC is holding three Family Fishing Festivals in May and three in June. These events lead up to the two statewide Fish-for-Free Days – the Sunday before Memorial Day, May 29, and Independence Day, July 4.
“Family Fishing Festivals are a convenient way to introduce friends and family to the sport of fishing at no cost,” said Carl Richardson, PFBC Education Section Manager. “These are educational events designed for families with little or no fishing experience. Participants will learn basic fishing skills and have an opportunity to practice those skills while fishing during the program.”
“We know that once people try it, particularly kids, they will see that fishing is a great recreational activity and they will want to do it more,” he added.
PFBC Family Fishing Festivals will be held at these locations:
- May 7, SC Region: Gifford Pinchot State Park - Conewago Day Use Area, York County, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)
- May 14, SE Region: Deep Creek Lake, Green Lane County Park, Montgomery, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)
- May 21, SW Region: North Park County Park, Allegheny County, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (for more information or to register)
- June 11, NE Region: Francis Slocum State Park - Day Use Boat Launch Area, Luzerne County, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)
- June 18, NW Region: Moraine State Park - Pleasant Valley Day Use Area, Butler County, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)
- June 26, NC Region: Bald Eagle State Park - Pavilion #7, Centre County, 11:00 AM to 03:00 PM. (for more information or to register)
The PFBC is waiving the fishing license requirement during the program for registered Family Fishing Festival participants 16 and older. The program is open to all ages, including children ages 5 and older. The PFBC provides equipment, bait, and tackle. PFBC staff will be present to teach skills and assist those who fish. Preregistration is required.
Visit www.GoneFishingPa.com to register or learn more about these programs. Space is limited, and there will be no registrations accepted the day of the event. In addition, PFBC partners will be hosting programs throughout the summer. These events can also be viewed at this website.
Media Contact:
Eric Levis, Press Secretary
717.705.7806 or elevis@pa.gov