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June 4, 2012
ROSEBURG, Ore. –Free Fishing Weekend is June 9-10, and Oregonian’s can fish, crab and clam for free. At events throughout southwestern Oregon, the novice can get angling help from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists and volunteers.
During Free Fishing Weekend, fishing licenses and tags are not required. All other regulations apply including bag limit and size restrictions. People who already have a combined tag for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon and halibut are encouraged to use it as it provides data for fish managers.
The following events held are Saturday, June 9 unless noted:
Coos County:
- Eel Lake at Tugman State Park, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. At a series of stations, kids will learn how to id fish, tie knots, and cast along with fishing courtesy and water safety. There is a free lunch, fishing tackle gift bag and the chance to catch trout out of a net pen.
- Powers County Park, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. The 22nd annual kids fishing derby is open to all kids 16 and younger. There are prizes for largest fish in several age categories and young anglers can learn fish identification and try the casting contest. Call the Powers Ranger District for information, 541-439-6200.
Curry County:
- Libby Pond, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. This event for kids 13 and younger features food, loaner fishing equipment and gear, and a fishing derby with prizes.
- Elk River Hatchery, June 9 and 10 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. both days for kids 10 and under. Children may fish either Saturday or Sunday but not both days to ensure as many kids as possible can fish at the hatchery. More information: David Chambers, 541-332-7025.
Douglas County:
- Cooper Creek, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. This popular event has a kiddie pond for kids ages two to eight. There will be loaner rods and reels, a casting contest, “bumbling fisherman” skit, and a fish cleaning station. Once kids go through an education station, they get a ticket for raffle drawings. Free hot dogs and Pepsi are provided.
- Diamond Lake, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Check-in begins at 6:00 a.m. at the resort’s marina. Fish will be measured by 2:30 p.m. and there will be prizes for biggest fish by age class for kids.
- Herbert’s Pond, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Prizes, bait supplies and help for first-time anglers are featured at this event for kids 16 and under
- Lake Marie, Sunday, June 10, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. This event is for kids 14 and under. Rods and reels will be available, along with help for first-time anglers. Kids can enter a casting contest and get a bounty for picking up litter. Hot dogs and soda are free to kids with a nominal charge for adults to help pay for next year’s event.
Jackson County:
- Expo Ponds, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Parental supervision is required. Rods and reels will be available for loan and bait is provided, along with help for beginning anglers. Information: 541-826-8774.
- Fish Lake, 9 am-12 pm. The U.S. Forest Service is sponsoring an event at the covered shelter near the boat ramp for children 16 years of age or younger. Information: High Cascades Ranger District, 541-560-3400.
- Hyatt Lake BLM Campground, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. This popular event features free camping Friday and Saturday nights, a raffle and other activities. The United Hunters and Sportsmen will offer free breakfast at the group shelter area both Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. Information: 541-618-2281.
- Lost Creek Lake Marina, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sponsored by Oregon State Parks, this event offers prizes, free bait, and limited loaner rods and reels; anglers are encouraged to bring their own gear. Information: 541-560-3334.
Josephine County:
- Lake Selmac, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. This event sponsored by the Middle Rogue Steelheaders is held at the Trout Shelter by the boat ramp for kids 16 and younger. There will be help for new anglers, free bait and loaner rods, and other activities.
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