First Free Fishing Day In 2010 To Be Held Saturday, June 5

Additional Free Fishing Days Scheduled for June 12 and July 4

Annapolis, MD (June 4, 2010) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Service announces June 5, June 12 and July 4 as days during which anglers may fish without fishing licenses. DNR sets aside three days each year when a license is not required to encourage families and visitors to fish in Maryland waters.

“This is a great chance for new and experienced anglers to sample the excellent fishing opportunities that Maryland offers,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “Families are encouraged to enjoy fishing at no cost while spending time together on Maryland’s beautiful, abundant waterways.”

Free-fishing anglers still must adhere to minimum size and creel limits for the 60 species that are managed by DNR. These limits are printed online and in the Maryland Fishing Guide available from hundreds of license agents and tackle shops as well as at the seven DNR Service Centers in the State.

Maryland's free fishing days are traditionally held the first two Saturdays in June and July 4. Anglers under 16 years old do not need a Maryland license throughout the season.

To find free fishing areas, go to www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/recreational/freefi.html.

DNR Service Center information and locations are available at www.dnr.maryland.gov/service/center.asp.

Anglers can report their catches through DNR’s Maryland Angler’s Log at www.dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/log.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2009, is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 467,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries, and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic, and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov