GRAND ISLE, Vt. – The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department would like to remind the public that Vermont's annual, statewide Summer Free Fishing Day is set to take place on Saturday, June 13 and will be highlighted by a free Family Fishing Festival in Grand Isle.

"Vermont's s Free Fishing Day affords residents and non-residents alike the opportunity to go fishing anywhere in Vermont for the day without a fishing license," said Louis Porter, commissioner of Vermont Fish & Wildlife. "With over 800 lakes and ponds, over 7,000 miles of rivers and streams, and 91 different species of fish, Vermont is a destination for anglers of all types. Whether you're catching panfish on a family trip or hauling in the trout of a lifetime with your close friend, Vermont has what you're looking for."

Vermont's landscape and diverse waterways support healthy populations of both warm and cold water fish, which provide for high quality angling opportunities and fun outdoor experiences.

"Fishing is a fun activity for people of all ages and is also a relaxing way to enjoy Vermont's beautiful scenery and unique natural resources," said Fish Culture Operations Manager Adam Miller. "We hope that both existing anglers and anyone interested in trying out fishing for the first time will get out on the water on June 13 to cast a line."

The "Grand Isle Family Fishing Festival" will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Free Fishing Day at the Ed Weed Fish Culture Station located at 14 Bell Hill Road in Grand Isle.

Designed for young anglers and families, this exciting event offers basic fishing instruction and the chance for kids to catch big trout in the hatchery pond. No prior fishing experience is needed and Vermont Fish & Wildlife will be supplying fishing rods, reels and bait for use by participants.

Families have the option to pre-register online for the festival at http://tinyurl.com/fishingfest2015 or sign in on the day of the event. Anyone with questions about the festival can contact Kristi Roche at 802-372-3171.

"Vermont is chock-full of fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages, abilities and interests, and the Grand Isle Family Fishing Festival is a perfect opportunity for newcomers to experience the great fun of fishing," Porter said.

To learn more about fishing in Vermont, the Grand Isle Family Fishing Festival, or to purchase a fishing license, visithttp://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/fish.


Media Contact: Adam Miller, Fish Culture Operations Manager, (802) 777-2852