National Fishing and Boating Week 2015 will be highlighted by the annual Free Fishing Weekend June 13-14, 2015, according to Bob Fala, director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). During these two days, residents and nonresidents can fish in West Virginia without a license.
“It is a great opportunity to remind people of the fun of fishing, especially with family and friends. If you already have a license, take someone fishing — it may be your children, spouse or co-worker – and introduce them to a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment,” Fala said.
DNR participates in a number of activities during National Fishing and Boating Week and Free Fishing Weekend. One of the largest events is the Bowden Fishing Derby that will be held June 13 at the Bowden Hatchery in Randolph County.  Another long-running event takes place June 13 at Little Beaver State Park near Beckley. Children must register for the events, and they will receive basic fishing instruction and will have the opportunity to enjoy time fishing with friends and family.
More information about fishing in West Virginia is available at www.wvdnr.gov and in the 2015 Fishing Regulations brochure available at license agents and online at www.wvdnr.gov/Fishing/Fishing_regs.shtm.
National Fishing and Boating Week began as a promotional activity sponsored by the sportfishing industry, encouraging fishing around Father’s Day. The recreational boating industry partnered with its sportfishing counterparts to develop a fishing and boating educational campaign.
From those beginnings, National Fishing and Boating Week has evolved into a very effective private/public partnership. The sportfishing and boating industries, fishing organizations and local, state, and federal agencies work together to promote the message that fishing is great fun and that healthy aquatic ecosystems are important. More information is available at http://takemefishing.org/nfbw/