Special events planned throughout the state for Illinois Free Fishing Days June 9-12, 2006

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Youth groups, civic organizations and recreation agencies throughout Illinois are planning fishing derbies, clinics and a host of other activities as part of Illinois Free Fishing Days June 9-12 announced Illinois Department of Natural Resources Acting Director Sam Flood. The annual celebration allows anyone to fish without the need for a fishing license, inland trout stamp or salmon stamp.

"We encourage everyone to participate in Free Fishing Days each spring with the belief that those youth and adults who try fishing will like it,” said Flood. “Fishing is a fun way for families to get together and spend time together outdoors.”

Organizations throughout the state plan special events during Free Fishing Days weekend and at other times throughout the spring and summer to focus on fishing. While anyone can fish without a license during the four days of Free Fishing Days, anglers fishing in fishing derbies, tournaments and other special events held prior to or after Free Fishing Days are required to have a fishing license, unless they are otherwise exempted.

For more information on Free Fishing Days events in Illinois, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources at 217/782-9990.

A list of some of the 2006 Illinois Free Fishing Days events are below: