June 27 is Kids Fishing Day at Bear Lodge

Young anglers will have the chance to try their luck at fishing and learn more about fish habitat at the annual Kids Fishing Day in the Bighorn National Forest, Saturday, June 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bear Lodge Pond.

“This is an opportunity for kids to be involved in an outdoor activity and perhaps create a lifelong passion for fishing,” said Casey Barby, fisheries biologist for the Bighorn National Forest.

Kids of all ages are welcome, and youth 13 and under are invited to attend with a parent or guardian. Wyoming residents age 13 and under do not need a Wyoming fishing license. Nonresident children 13 and under must have an adult with a valid Wyoming fishing license on site. All state regulations and creel limits apply.

The event is free. Volunteers from the Forest Service, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers and the Powder River Basin Chapter of Trout Unlimited will be available to answer questions and offer assistance or instruction on casting techniques, knot tying, angler ethics and fish conservation and ecology. Lunch will be provided by the Powder River Basin Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

Participants should be prepared for fishing and changing mountain weather by bringing their fishing tackle, rain gear, layered clothing, snacks, coolers with ice for transporting fish, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Bear Lodge Pond is located next to Bear Lodge off U.S. Highway 14A at Burgess Junction. For more information email SM.FS.bighorninfo@usda.gov or call 307-674-2600.