Anglers may fish without license, stamps Saturday

If you want to try your hand at fishing, but not ready to a long-term commitment, Saturday, June 7, is your chance.

Saturday is "Free Sportfishing Day" when anglers will be allowed to fish any public waters in Texas without a fishing license. It is the highlight of the eighth annual National Fishing and Boating Week, June 1-8.

Among fishing activities to be held on the free fishing day is the Redfish Bay Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association's Take a Kid Fishing tournament in Port Aransas (see related story).

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials said the special day, authorized by the Texas Legislature, is intended to promote fishing and encourage people to enjoy the state's fishing resources. Both resident and non-resident recreational anglers will be allowed to fish without a license, and will not be required to have special stamps such as the saltwater or freshwater fishing stamps. Size and bag limits remain in effect.