Catch this, anglers and wannabes: Free Fishing Day Saturday

For one day, this Saturday, generally from dawn to dusk, people in Utah will be able to fish free.

What it means is that those standing on the banks of a river or reservoir, with fishing rod in hand, will not have to buy a fishing license on this one day.

They will need a rod and reel, and either an attractive lure or container of worms. But, they will not need the license that gives them the rights to catch and keep fish. It's a one-day pass given by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

The fish agency has also taken steps to make sure there are fish to catch. Earlier this week it began an aggressive planting program that will hit most of Utah's more popular fishing waters.

While those fishing on June 11 will not need a license, they will need to follow all other regulations found in the 2005 Utah Fishing Proclamation.

"We're trying to attract people to fishing by having a free day," said Tom Pettengill, sport fisheries coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources.

Pettengill said anglers fishing June 11 may want to focus their efforts on lakes and reservoirs, "because that's where most of the fish will be stocked." Those who may be fishing for the first time are advised to pick up a copy of the proclamation and learn the rules, especially those related to limits on the various species.

Proclamations are available at the DWR's Web site —wildlife.utah.gov — and from fishing license agents statewide and at DWR office. There will be a number of free fishing event scheduled on Saturday.

They include:

• In Logan, a free event will be held at Willow Park, 419 W. 700 South. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is for children 14 years of age and younger. Activities include fly-tying, fly and spin-casting lessons, a casting contest, a "Bugs Don't Bug Me" activity, fish crafts and fish printing.

Clinics will also be provided to teach kids more about fish and fishing. Fishing equipment will be provided, but those who have their own equipment are encouraged to bring it.

Free T-shirts and prize bags will be given to the first 250 participants.

Sponsored by the DWR's Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area, Cache Anglers and Project Wet. For more information, call Marni Lee at 435-753-6206.

• In Ogden, the 4th Annual Ogden City "Free Family Fishing Fair" will be held at the Ogden City Rodeo Stadium and West Stadium Park at 668 17th St.