Free Fishing
 |
This Weekend You Can Fish for Free!
June 8, 2011
Reporter: Patrick McMurtry
Videographer: Brad Rice
|
This is one of the most popular weekends of the year, school is out, the weather should be great, and anyone can fish for free in West Virginia. On June 11 and 12th, you don't need a license to fish in the state, and that goes for our out of state visitors, too. The Department of Natural Resources takes part in the national free fishing weekend so people who don't usually buy a fishing license can catch the fishing bug...or worm as the case may be. Whether your fishing for trout, bass, walleye, musky or even just want to catch a big ol' drum, it won't cost you anything to give it a try. This is the perfect time to take kids fishing for the first time, or even your significant other who's always wanted to join you on the water, but may not have had the chance.
If you are taking the kids out, here are a few tips: try to fish for something easy to catch, like bluegill, crappy or little perch. Live bait works best, worms, are cheap and effective. Get them out in the morning or evenings-it's cooler and the fish are generally more active. Pack snacks, plenty of water or drinks and let them do some exploring between casts. Often times the best fishing trips with kids turn into picnics and adventure outings. You might want to check out some small ponds or lakes to get started...there are a bunch of those in our state parks and wildlife management areas.
And if you see some folks with out of state tags fishing, say hi...after all, anglers of all kinds help pump nearly $350 million a year into our state's economy. Have fun, good luck and see you on the banks!
Send email to news@wchstv.com for information or comments concerning WCHS-TV Eyewitness News.