RBC I Join Colorado Parks and Wildlife for Colorado’s Free Fishing Weekend on June 6-7, when anglers of all ages can fish without a license anywhere in the state.
CPW encourages anglers to get out and take advantage of the opportunity to experience fishing Colorado’s more than 2,500 lakes and reservoirs, many within beautiful state parks, and 10,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers including 300 miles of Gold Medal streams and approximately 3,200 acres of Gold Medal lakes.
“Family and the community play an important role when it comes to outdoor experiences,” said CPW Director Bob Broscheid. “Fishing is one of the many ways the whole family can enjoy the outdoors together.”
According to CPW’s 2013 Outdoor Recreation Participation Public Survey Summary Report, fishing is one of the most popular activities in Colorado.
Some reasons for this, Broscheid says, is the connection and memories made with others.
“Creating a connection through shared outdoor experiences, like fishing,” adds Broscheid, “not only helps you learn about the sport of fishing, but also provides a unique bond for friends and families to remember for years to come.”
There are plenty of options to get started.
Fishing is easy to learn and fun to enjoy, so give it a try,” said CPW’s Angler Education Coordinator, Howard Horton. “This free event can get people acquainted with the sport and offers a way to enjoy time outside and develop a hobby in fishing.”
Not sure what fly, lure or equipment to use? Horton offers advice.
When trying to get into the sport of fishing, it can be easy to get overwhelmed, but there are many resources that CPW provides to get you started,” Horton said.
CPW has multiple web resources such as the fishing report, fishing atlas, stocking report, and call center 303-297-1192 where outdoor recreation questions are answered from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and fishing clinics available throughout the state.
The CPW Fishing Report is online at cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/FishingReports.aspx. The report details fishing conditions throughout the state on a weekly basis from April until October.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds the public that although a license is not required on Free Fishing Weekend, all other rules and regulations will apply.
Anglers should consult the 2015 Colorado Fishing Brochure for specific regulations and restrictions. To view the 2015 Colorado Fishing Brochure, go to cpw.state.co.us/Documents/Rules Regs/Brochure/fishing.pdf
Fishing licenses can be purchased at any Colorado Parks and Wildlife office or from one of the more than 600 license agents across the state. Licenses can also be purchased online or over the phone by calling 800-244-5613.
For more information go to www.cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing.aspx.
Last year more than million fishing licenses were sold in Colorado. The sale of fishing licenses allows for CPW to maintain and conserve fish habitat that promotes better fishing in Colorado.
