NEWS FROM THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
June 5, 2008
Vol. 38, No. 263
For more information on fishing in Delaware, contact Craig Shirey, Fisheries, 302-739-9914, on the Youth Fishing Tournament, Carol Weyant, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, 302-739-9913, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.
Annual Youth Fishing Tournament to Be Held June 7
Free Fishing Days for All Ages Set for June 7 and 8
Young anglers ages 4 to 15 are invited to cast a line this Saturday, June 7, into three Delaware ponds to participate in the 22nd Annual Youth Fishing Tournament. In addition, to celebrate National Fishing Week June 1-8, the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife encourages anglers of all ages to dangle a hook in fresh and tidal waters all over the state on this year’s free fishing days, Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8. For these two days, fishing license requirements are suspended.
The Division-sponsored Youth Fishing Tournament will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Ingrams Pond in Millsboro, Wyoming Pond in Town Park, Wyoming, and at the dog training area at Lums Pond State Park in Bear.
An adult must accompany youths under age 12 and contestants must bring their own fishing equipment. Catch and release will be taught and encouraged. Prizes will be awarded in three age groups: 4 to 7, 8 to 11 and 12 to 15. The tournament is free and open to the public.
The tournament offers a great opportunity for family fun, with kids experiencing the excitement and wonder of catching fish. In the long term, Fisheries Administrator Roy Miller points out that it can also be the start of a pastime the young anglers will enjoy for years to come, with the added benefit of helping our environment.
“Youth participation in fishing as a form of outdoor recreation is the key to ensure that fishing opportunities will be available long into the future. Fishermen are a crucial advocacy group to help ensure that our aquatic resources receive the care and protection they so vitally need,” Miller said.
For more information on the Youth Fishing Tournament, please call 302-739-9913 or visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/2008YouthFishingTournament.aspx. An entry form is also available on the website.
With the exception of this one weekend, resident and non-resident anglers between the ages of 16 and 64 are required to purchase a fishing license and display it while fishing in all Delaware waters, both fresh and tidal. Clammers and crabbers are also required to have fishing licenses. Delaware residents 65 and older and both residents and non-residents under age 16 do not have to purchase a license. Licenses are required for non-residents age 65 and older.
Fishing licenses for Delaware residents cost $8.50, while non-residents pay $20. Licenses may be purchased at DNREC’s Richardson and Robbins Building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, or at any of the more than 100 license agents located in sporting goods stores, hardware stores and other businesses throughout the state.
To purchase a Delaware fishing license online, view the 2008 Fishing Guide, or for more information on fishing licenses, please visit the Fisheries homepage at www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/Fisheries.aspx.
For other inquiries or further information, please call 302-739-9918.
