Free youth fishing begins June 7

Classes take place at OKC “Close to Home” fishing waters

(May 22, 2008) - Anglers 5 to 15 looking to reel in some fun this summer can register for one of nine FREE “Hooked on Fishing” youth fishing clinics offered through the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department.

Classes will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. on the following dates and locations:

Metro Tech Springlake, NE 36th at Springlake Drive       June 7, July 12 & August 9       

Dolese Youth Park Pond, 5105 NW 50th Street              June 14 & July 26

Crystal Lake, SW 15th & MacArthur Blvd.                        June 21 & August 23

Edwards Park Fishing Lake, 1515 N Bryant                     July 19 & August 16

Participants will learn everything from the basics of knot tying and casting to fish identification, equipment and regulations.  Instructors from the City’s Fisheries Management program and the State Department of Wildlife Conservation will be on hand to assist anglers young and old with their techniques.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce area youth to the sport of fishing,” said Bob Martin, fisheries biologist for the City of Oklahoma City.  “It also provides a way for families to spend meaningful time together while enjoying the great fishing we have to offer in the City.”

Fishing poles, tackle and bait will be provided at each clinic.  Per a new city ordinance passed earlier this year, adults attending classes with their children are not required to carry a State fishing license or City permit during class time.  During non-class times, all anglers between the ages of 16 and 62 who are not exempt for disability purposes, must possess both a State fishing license and City fishing permit to fish on city waters.

The summer youth classes are by reservation only, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.  Attendees are encouraged to show up 15 minutes prior to the class start time, and provide hats and drinks for everyone in their party.

The annual free fishing classes are part of the “Close to Home” Fishing Program designed to educate new anglers on fishing basics, and the wealth of fishing opportunities in Oklahoma City.  The clinics are a partnership between the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department Athletic League and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

The Parks Department has been offering the fishing classes for over 25 years.  More than 600 children and 400 adults attend the classes annually.  For registration and information, citizens may call the OKC Police Athletic League at 316-FISH (3474).  A complete list of class dates and locations can be found at www.okc.gov/parks.