SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. – We can name at least three good reasons why you need to go fishing. Connection – Fishing and boating offer a great way to connect with family. Stress Relief – Fishing is considered one of the top three ways to relieve stress. Conservation - The funds from your fishing license help conserve Georgia lakes, rivers and waterways. Want one more? There is no better time to get outdoors than during National Fishing and Boating Week, June 1-9, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.
“There are no bad days spent boating and fishing,” Matt Thomas, chief of the fisheries management section, said. “Teaching a child to fish, or taking an outing to a nearby waterway can help build a conservation ethic, while also introducing an exciting activity you both can enjoy for life.”
National Fishing and Boating Week began in 1979 and was created to recognize the tradition of fishing, to broaden the spirit of togetherness and to share the values and knowledge of today’s anglers with tomorrow’s anglers.
How to Celebrate:
FREE FISHING DAYS: In the spirit of introducing new family members or friends to the sport of angling, Georgia offers two free fishing days during this special week – Sat., June 1 and Sat., June 8, 2019. On these days, Georgia residents do not need a fishing license, trout license or Lands Pass (WMAs/PFAs) to fish.
FREE KIDS FISHING EVENTS: In addition to the two free fishing days, there are lots of free kids fishing events scheduled across the state to help introduce children to fishing. These events offer a healthy form of entertainment for kids and provide an excellent opportunity for beginning anglers to learn from experienced volunteers. Many events offer prizes, free lunches and other fun-filled activities. Find events here: https://georgiawildlife.com/featured-events-calendar.
Where to Celebrate:
There are so many great places to fish in Georgia, from trout streams in North Georgia, to large reservoirs, to lazy rivers in the south part of the state. You can always start at one of the ten Public Fishing Areas (https://georgiawildlife.com/allpfas) or at one of many Georgia State Parks (https://gastateparks.org/) that offer exciting fishing opportunities for family and friends.
According to the National Fishing and Boating Week website, one of the main reasons people don’t go fishing or boating is because no one has invited them. YOU can help change this! Make it a mission during National Fishing and Boating Week, or the next time you go fishing, to take someone new: a child, a relative or a friend.
For more information on National Fishing and Boating Week and all it has to offer, including the free fishing days, nearest kids fishing event or places to fish, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/nfbw.
