FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CELEBRATE SPRING BY FISHING AND BOATING: TWO GREAT REASONS TO BE OUTSIDE

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. (May 24, 2016) –Georgia lakes, rivers and ponds are waiting and what better time to get outdoors than during National Fishing and Boating Week, June 4-12, 2016, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

“Positive connections happen when families get together and enjoy outdoor recreation, such as boating and fishing,” says John Biagi, chief of fisheries management. “Teaching a child to fish, or taking an outing on a boat can help build a conservation ethic, while also introducing an exciting activity you can enjoy for life.”

National Fishing and Boating Week began in 1979 as National Fishing Week and was created to recognize the tradition of fishing, to broaden the spirit of togetherness and to share the values and knowledge of today’s anglers with tomorrow’s anglers.

According to the National Fishing and Boating Week website, one of the main reasons people don’t go fishing or boating is because no one has invited them. YOU can help change this! Make it a mission during National Fishing and Boating Week, or the next time you go fishing, to take someone new: a child, a relative or a friend.

How to Celebrate!

· FREE FISHING DAYS: In the spirit of introducing new family members or friends to the sport of angling, Georgia offers two free fishing days during this special week – Sat., June 4 and Sat., June 11, 2016. On these days, Georgia residents do not need a fishing license or a trout license in order to fish. Residents can fish on any public waters in the state including lakes, streams, ponds and public fishing areas. Plus, residents do not need to obtain a wildlife management area license to fish on a public fishing area or on Waters Creek on these two free fishing days.

· FREE KIDS FISHING EVENTS: In addition to the two free fishing days, free kids fishing events are scheduled across the state during the week to help introduce children to fishing. These events offer a healthy form of entertainment for kids and provide an excellent opportunity for beginning anglers to learn from experienced volunteers. Many events offer prizes, free lunches and other fun-filled activities – so make plans to attend one!

For more information on National Fishing and Boating Week and all it has to offer, including the free fishing days, nearest kids fishing event or places to fish, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/nfbw .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TEACH A KID TO FISH AT A KIDS FISHING EVENT

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. (May 24, 2016) –Fishing together with your child can build some powerful memories, so make this a summer to remember! Don’t know how to fish? No problem. Visit one of the many upcoming kids fishing events scheduled for spring and summer!

Kids fishing events typically take place at a location with a high successful catch rate and many events have on-site volunteers to provide assistance for those new to fishing, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

“There is nothing like watching a kid catch their first fish – and you could be the one that introduces that love of fishing for your child,” says John Biagi, chief of fisheries management. “Kids fishing events are a great place to begin as they are organized and help you and your child get a feel for fishing before trying to ‘tackle’ it on your own.”

Research shows that most people are introduced to fishing by a family member, and most consider a family member to be their best fishing friend.

Kids fishing events are sponsored across the state and provide fishing assistance to both children (under age 16) and parents from knowledgeable instructors. The Wildlife Resources Division co-sponsors many events by providing channel catfish or trout to improve fishing, educational materials for participants and guidance for sponsors.

How do you find more information or local events? Visit www.georgiawildlife.com/fishing/kids-fishing. Here you will find tips on fishing with kids, recommended places to go fish with children, a “kid’s first fish certificate,” and a link to a calendar where you can find local events.

For more information on fishing in Georgia, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com/fishing