Use fishing, boating to reconnect parents and kids

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) encourages people of all ages to reconnect with their families during National Fishing and Boating Week, June 2-10. The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) declare boating and fishing as unmatched leisure activities that help make a true connection with family, friends and the natural environment. A recent national survey indicated that 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships.

"Outdoor recreation strengthens the family as a unit and children as individuals," says WRD Chief of Fisheries Management Chuck Coomer. "National Fishing and Boating Week is an opportunity to remind all outdoor enthusiasts to teach their children and others the importance of natural resource conservation while introducing them to a sport that could last a lifetime."

NFBW 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.

In the spirit of introducing new family members or friends to the sport of angling, Georgia offers a free fishing day during NFBW, Saturday, June 9. On these days, Georgia residents do not need a fishing license or a trout license in order to fish. Residents can fishon any public waters in the state including lakes, streams, ponds and public fishing areas. Additionally, residents do not need to obtain a WMA license to fishon a public fishing area or on Waters Creek on the free fishing day.

In addition to the free fishing day, there are more than 40 kids fishing events scheduled across the state during the week to help introduce children to fishing. These events offer a healthy form of entertainment for kids and are an excellent opportunity for beginning anglers to experience the vast rewards of recreational fishing. Kids fishing events are fee, held statewide, and have experienced volunteers on hand to help. Many events offer prizes, free lunches and other funfilledactivities.

For more information on free fishing days, finding the nearest kids fishing event, or finding a place to fish, visit the WRD website at www. gofishgeorgia.com or call a WRD Fisheries Management Office.For more information on NFBW , visit the national website at www.takemefishing.org .

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