BATON ROUGE – The Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the Office of State Parks (OSP) are encouraging residents and visitors to take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities available during 2009 Free Fishing Weekend (June 6-7) and statewide “Day in the Park” activities on June 6.

The normally required Louisiana recreational fishing license for anglers 16 years of age and older will not be needed on Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7 only. Residents and visitors to the state can take advantage of the offer. Fishermen are reminded that standard state fishing regulations pertaining to fish size and creel limits are in effect through the weekend.

OSP is showcasing all State Parks on June 6 as part of the agency’s 75th Anniversary Celebration with open day-use access to all facilities. Most State Parks provide day-use facilities that include picnic areas, hiking trails, fishing piers and boat ramps. The standard day-use charge will be waived on the first Saturday in June.

Both agencies are promoting easy access fishing opportunities that include bank and pier fishing for individuals and families who may not have boat access to fishing spots. Licensed recreational fishermen are encouraged to take someone fishing who is new to the sport or who has not participated in some time.

First time fishermen and parents or guardians with children can introduce someone to the sport at family fishing events scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the following State Parks (SP): Bayou Segnette SP, Westwego; Chicot SP, Ville Platte; Fontainebleau SP, Mandeville; Lake Claiborne SP, Homer; Poverty Point Reservoir SP, Delhi; and Sam Houston Jones SP, Lake Charles.

OSP Interpretive Ranger staff and LDWF Education staff will provide assistance for park visitors on June 6 within the day-use areas at the family fishing event sites. Fishing supplies (poles and bait) will be available in limited supplies on a first come, first serve basis. Participants are encouraged to bring their own gear and enjoy the day fishing from a pier or bank-side location.

Complimentary gift bags will be available for the first 200 participants to sign in within the day-use area at each park. Everyone who signs in will also receive a chance at winning door prizes to be drawn for at noon.

Family fishing event participants are urged to bring a picnic lunch and soft drinks and spend the day. Vending machines on site provide soft drinks, but no food service is available at State Park sites. All children (under age 15) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Free day-use access on June 6 will also be available at these State Parks: Chemin-A-Haut, Cypremort Point, Fairview-Riverside, Grand Isle, Jimmie Davis, Lake Bistineau, Lake Bruin, Lake D’Arbonne, Lake Fausse Pointe, North Toledo Bend, St. Bernard, South Toledo Bend and Tickfaw.