2015 Kids Fishing Day Events Announced

Asheville, N.C., May 11, 2015 – The U.S. Forest Service announced today that the National Forests in North Carolina in cooperation with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) and other partners will host a series of Kids Fishing Day events throughout May and June at sites across the state.

The events are free for children ages 12 years and younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own poles though most events will have bait and extra poles available. Children must be able to handle their poles independently though adults may assist in reeling.

These events allow families and friends to share fun, quality time together while learning about one of our nation's favorite pastimes - fishing. The sites will be stocked for the events and U.S. Forest Service, NCWRC staff and volunteers will be present to assist participants. No experience is needed for families to participate. Participants will need to register on the day of the event, beginning one hour prior to the start time. At many sites participants will be able to register for drawings giving away fishing related prizes.

Each site will be closed for regular licensed fishing from 8:00 a.m. on the day of the Kids Fishing Day event, until its conclusion. This closure is pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b), and for the protection of public and natural resources. This closure is in effect to support free kids fishing events on the National Forests in North Carolina during National Fishing and Boating Week.

Events location, date, time and contact info are listed below:

Pisgah National Forest

Location	Date	Time	Contact
Boone Fork Pond, Grandfather Ranger District	5/16/2015	9:00 to 2:00	Christopher Williams (828) 652-2144
Max Patch Pond, Appalachian Ranger District	6/6/2015	9:00 to 2:00	Brandon Jones (828) 682-6146
Lake Powhatan, Pisgah Ranger District	6/6/2015	9:00 to 2:00	Lorie Stroup (828) 877-3265
Carolina Hemlocks Campground, South Toe River, Appalachian Ranger District	6/13/2015	9:00 to 1:00	Brandon Jones (828) 682-6146

Nantahala National Forest

Location	Date	Time	Contact
Cherokee Lake, Tusquitee Ranger District	6/6/2015	7:30 to Noon	Todd Sharkey (828) 837-5152
Santeelah Creek at Rattler Ford Campground, Cheoah Ranger District	6/6/2015	9:00 to Noon	Gina Rogers (828) 479-6431 (Participants are requested to pre-register with the district prior to the event if possible.)
Cliffside Lake, Nantahala Ranger District *	6/6/2015	9:00 to 1:00	Richard McClure (828) 524-6441