Anglers invited to end summer season with free day in favorite
spot
n Staff Report
Gilroy – What better way to close out the summer than with a free day of fishing in one of California’s gorgeous lakes, streams, waterways or the Pacific Ocean. For the second time this year, the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) invites anglers to participate in Free Fishing Day, set for Saturday.
The complimentary day of fishing sets aside the normal requirement for anyone 16 years and older to possess a California fishing license. All other fishing regulations, such as bag and size limits, gear restrictions, fishing hours and stream closures, remain in effect. The earlier Free Fishing Day was June 10.
“California has the most spectacular angling opportunities available anywhere in the country,” said DFG Director Ryan Broddrick. “DFG’s Free Fishing Day is a fantastic chance to enjoy the outdoors and a great day of fishing.”
The state offers more than 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, 4,800 lakes and reservoirs – including Anderson, Coyote, Uvas and Chesbro locally – and 80 major rivers. It also has more than 1,100 miles of coastline, and hundreds of native fish species.
DFG offers several fishing-related programs designed to help everyone enjoy one of the nation’s most popular outdoor recreational sports.
More than 150 different species of freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and a number of ocean shellfish species can be found in California. Free Fishing Day has served as a springboard for people to connect to the tradition of fishing. Statistics from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate that more than 44 million Americans consider themselves anglers, with the largest portion coming from California.
The national pastime contributed toward a $116 billion-a-year impact on the nation’s economy, with only swimming considered more popular as an outdoor recreational activity.
For those who catch the fishing bug after the upcoming free opportunity, DFG offers several options to keep the fishing line flying.
DFG’s License and Revenue Branch offers a one- and two-day license. A full year sport fishing license for California residents is $34.90. Fees for licenses that are available from license agents include 5 percent license agent handling fee.
Serious anglers – or anglers who want to become serious – can save money by purchasing a lifetime license.
