CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Gov. Jim Justice announced today that Free Fishing Weekend in West Virginia will return June 10-11, 2023, and encouraged anglers and their families to plan a trip.
The Free Fishing Weekend is part of a nationwide effort to make fishing more accessible to the public. During these two days, residents and nonresidents are able to fish for free in West Virginia’s public lakes, streams, and rivers without having to buy a license.
Justice said that as a lover of the outdoors, he looks forward to the annual fishing event.
"As a lifelong angler, I know firsthand that fishing in West Virginia is one of the most joyous things you can do in this world,” Justice said.
“I want to encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to try fishing out or to introduce someone you know to the sport we all love so much.”
West Virginia’s Free Fishing Weekend isn’t limited to giving new anglers a chance to try the sport out. People who have fished in the past but haven’t renewed their licenses in years are encouraged to participate.
Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, says he hopes the two-day event will encourage former anglers to get back out to the water.
"Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, our free fishing weekend is a great time to cast a line and have some fun," McMillion said. "We hope this event will encourage people to try fishing for the first time or to rekindle their love for the sport."
As part of Free Fishing Weekend, the WVDNR will host its annual fishing derby for kids at Little Beaver State Park on June 10. The event gives children an opportunity to receive basic fishing instruction and to enjoy time outdoors with friends and family.
The Little Beaver event is free to attend, but anglers will need to register to participate. Registration will take place on-site from 9-10:30 a.m. on the day of the derby.
Anglers who enjoy Free Fishing Days and want to continue fishing after this weekend can purchase or renew a fishing license at WVFish.com.
For more information about fishing opportunities in West Virginia, go to WVDNR.gov/fishing.
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