Fish for Free

Have you been wanting to teach your kid(s) how to fish? Maybe you have been wanting to learn how to fish or introduce a friend or family member to fishing?  If so, gear up and venture into the great outdoors for an enjoyable day in the picturesque bluff country.

In June, all three states in bluff country offer residents the chance to fish for free.

Wisconsin

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Wisconsin’s upcoming free fishing weekend on June 1-2! During this special event, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy casting their lines without the need for a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp. It’s the perfect chance for family and friends to come together and experience the joy of fishing firsthand!

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) loans out fishing equipment at DNR offices and state parks and facilities throughout the State. There is no fee to borrow the equipment. The Wisconsin DNR website, dnr.wisconsin.gov offers educational resources, which are available online.

Iowa

Iowa residents can enjoy fishing without the need for a fishing license during the weekend of June 7, 8, and 9. This special opportunity is part of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) free fishing weekend program. Remember, all other regulations remain in place.

Additionally, Iowa provides educational workshops tailored for beginners. The DNA also offers over 3,400 free loaner rods and reels at more than 100 locations throughout the state.

For further details, visit the Iowa DNA website, www.iowadnr.gov.

Minnesota

Minnesota’s annual Take a Kid Fishing weekend is June 7, 8, and 9 this year. Residents aged 16 or older who take a child 15 or younger fishing don’t need to purchase a license.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNA) website reminds residents that they can fish without a license in most Minnesota state parks. However, it’s important to note that a vehicle permit is still required for entrance into the park, and all park regulations, including fishing rules, must be followed. This applies solely to Minnesota state parks and does not apply to state recreation areas or for city, county, regional, or national parks, where a fishing license is necessary.

Did you know? If fishing at a Minnesota State Park and don’t have all the necessary equipment, stop by the park’s ranger station to check out a fishing kit. Kits come complete with a rod, reel, and a stocked tackle box, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

To enhance your fishing knowledge, consider registering for a “I Can Fish!” educational program, which can be accessed online through the DNR’s website.

Visit dnr.stat.mn.us for further details.

Upcoming Events in Historic Bluff Country:

•May 26, State Veterans Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony, Preston, Minn.

•May 31, Music on the Bluff, Whalan, Minn.

•June 8, Rhubarb Festival, Lanesboro, Minn.

•June 8, Lake Louise State Park Open House, LeRoy, MN

•June 13, Rhythm by the River, Preston, Minn.

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.

For information on upcoming town festivals and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining, and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.