05-21-2007, 07:10 PM
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is holding a family fishing day June 2 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Outdoor Wildlife Learning Site located adjacent to the department's main office in Bismarck.
Fishing rods and basic tackle are available for use free of charge, if needed, and the first 100 kids ages 14 and younger will receive a gift. Hot dogs and refreshments will be served from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Jeff Long, education coordinator for the department, said the date coincides with free fishing weekend, so adults do not need a license to participate. "This event also kicks off our new program that encourages parents to take their kids fishing," Long said. "This is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time together as a family."
Beginning in June and continuing through August, fishing equipment can be checked out at the OWLS on Wednesdays (9 a.m. - 7 p.m.) and Saturdays (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.). "Parents need to be aware that while there will be adults in the area to answer questions and check out equipment, there will be little or no direct supervision," Long said. "If kids aren't old enough to get to the pond on their own, they need to have an adult with them.
"It is important to note that the area is fairly primitive, with only a picnic shelter and benches upon entering the site," Long continued. "There are no restroom facilities, or running water. Users should bring water, sunscreen and the appropriate clothing."
The department is seeking volunteer instructors to assist with the program. Individuals over age 18 with an interest in teaching kids to fish should contact Long at 328-6322.
The OWLS pond is open to fishing year-round during daylight hours. There are no bait restrictions and anglers must practice catch-and-release only. The area is designed for wheel chair accessibility. Pets, glass bottles and alcohol are not permitted on the site.
"The OWLS pond was recently renovated, which enhanced both the fishery and access," Long said. "We want to take this opportunity to reach out to parents and let them know fishing is a great family activity that requires very little expertise or equipment."
Fishing rods and basic tackle are available for use free of charge, if needed, and the first 100 kids ages 14 and younger will receive a gift. Hot dogs and refreshments will be served from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Jeff Long, education coordinator for the department, said the date coincides with free fishing weekend, so adults do not need a license to participate. "This event also kicks off our new program that encourages parents to take their kids fishing," Long said. "This is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time together as a family."
Beginning in June and continuing through August, fishing equipment can be checked out at the OWLS on Wednesdays (9 a.m. - 7 p.m.) and Saturdays (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.). "Parents need to be aware that while there will be adults in the area to answer questions and check out equipment, there will be little or no direct supervision," Long said. "If kids aren't old enough to get to the pond on their own, they need to have an adult with them.
"It is important to note that the area is fairly primitive, with only a picnic shelter and benches upon entering the site," Long continued. "There are no restroom facilities, or running water. Users should bring water, sunscreen and the appropriate clothing."
The department is seeking volunteer instructors to assist with the program. Individuals over age 18 with an interest in teaching kids to fish should contact Long at 328-6322.
The OWLS pond is open to fishing year-round during daylight hours. There are no bait restrictions and anglers must practice catch-and-release only. The area is designed for wheel chair accessibility. Pets, glass bottles and alcohol are not permitted on the site.
"The OWLS pond was recently renovated, which enhanced both the fishery and access," Long said. "We want to take this opportunity to reach out to parents and let them know fishing is a great family activity that requires very little expertise or equipment."