2013 Pennsylvania Family Fishing Festivals Set for May and June

HARRISBURG, Pa.–The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) 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 - Memorial Day, May 27, and Independence Day, July 4.

“Family Fishing Festivals are a convenient way to introduce friends and family to the sport of fishing,” said PFBC Executive Director John Arway. “While we offer family fishing programs throughout the year, the May and June events call more attention to the importance of fishing in the lives of many Pennsylvania families. Through the events, former and new anglers can try fishing at no cost. We know that once people try it, particularly kids, they will see that fishing is a great recreational activity and they will want to do it more.”

Family Fishing Festivals are educational events designed for families with little or no fishing experience to have fun fishing together. Families will learn basic fishing skills and have an opportunity to practice those skills while fishing during the program.
Family Fishing Festivals will be hosted by the PFBC at these locations:

• May 11 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Blue Marsh Lake, Berks County. (more info-register)
• May 18 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Keystone State Park, Westmoreland County. Pavilion # 1. (more info-register)
• June 8 from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Bald Eagle State Park, Centre County. (more info-register)
• June 22 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Lake Arthur, Moraine State Park, Butler County. (more info-register)
• June 29 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Lackawanna Lake, Lackawanna State Park, Lackawanna County. (more info-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 up. The PFBC is providing equipment, bait and tackle. PFBC staff will be present to teach skills and assist those who fish. Preregistration is required.

Visit www.TakeMeFishingPa.com to register or learn more about these events. Space is limited, and there will be no registrations accepted the day of the event. In addition, PFBC partners will be hosting events throughout the month. These events can also be viewed at this website.