Date: 06/17/09
Contact: Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127 x 3500

ANGLERS GATHER FOR FREE FISHING DAY AT LAKE MEAD

Approximately 300 people participated in free fishing day on June 13, 2009 at Lake Mead. Slightly overcast and cooler than usual for this time of year, the weather cooperated, except for a few gusts of wind. This was a joint event with Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), National Park Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and Public Lands Institute. Although folks around the state enjoyed free fishing day at all fishable waters, this event was organized to “hook” folks on the fun of fishing, by learning techniques and trying out equipment. The Nevada Division of State Parks also celebrated the day by granting free access for anglers at all water-based state parks.

Kids and adults came to Lake Mead to borrow poles and get free casting lessons. They also learned which bait to use and how to hook it up. Other activity stations included identifying Nevada’s native fish, making fish prints and learning about local wildlife. The prize raffle was a big hit, with prizes for both adults and children, including fishing poles and reels, bait packs, and fishing tools and stools. Donations came from the Southern Nevada Chapter of Trout Unlimited, as well as Bass Pro.

The day’s catches included striped bass, carp, and bluegill. Both kids and adults reeled in some “trophies.” One woman celebrated “beginner’s luck” during her first time fishing, with her catch of a bluegill. And it wasn’t just fish that were caught. Someone netted a red eared slider, but immediately released it back into the lake. Boating anglers in the area saw the crowd and moved in to take advantage of the increased fish activity.

According to Ivy Santee, NDOW angler education coordinator, “We chose Lake Mead for our event because it’s not always an easy lake to fish. Hopefully by participating in all the activities we had to offer, folks went away with more confidence on how to fish lake.”

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. Visit www.ndow.org.