Fish & Boat Commission: 2017 Family Fishing Festivals Set For May And June

The Fish and Boat Commission Monday announced it 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 28, 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.”

PFBC Family Fishing Festivals will be held at these locations:

-- May 6: Gi­fford Pinchot State Park - Conewago Day Use Area, York County, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)

-- May 13: Tohickon Access, Nockamixon State Park, Bucks County, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)

-- May 20: North Park County Park, Allegheny County, 2 - 6 p.m. (for more information or to register)

-- June 3: M. K. Goddard State Park – Launch #3, Mercer County, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (for more information or to register)

-- June 11: Bald Eagle State Park - Pavilion #6 & #7, Centre County, 3 - 7 p.m. (for more information or to register)

-- June 25: Frances Slocum State Park – Environmental Education Center, Luzerne County, 1 - 5 p.m. (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. Space is limited, and there will be no registrations accepted the day of the events.

In addition, PFBC partners will be hosting programs throughout the summer. Visit www.GoneFishingPA.com to learn more about these programs and to see a complete list of PFBC programs. Participants can also register through this website.