National Fishing and Boating Week 2009 will be highlighted by the 20th annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 13 and 14, according to Frank Jezioro, Director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.

During these two days, residents and nonresidents can fish in West Virginia without a license. “It is a great opportunity to remind people of the fun of fishing, especially with family and friends.

If you already have a license, take someone fishing. It may be your children, spouse, or co-worker, and you will be introducing them to a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment,” said Jezioro.

National Fishing and Boating Week has evolved into one of the largest private/public partnerships in existence. The sportfishing and boating industries, fishing organizations, and local, state, and federal agencies are working together to bring the message home that fishing is great fun and that healthy aquatic ecosystems are important.

The DNR participates in a number of activities during National Fishing and Boating Week and the Free Fishing Weekend, said Jezioro. Two of the largest and most successful events are the Bowden Fishing Derby held at the Bowden Hatchery in Randolph County and the Fishing Derby at Little Beaver State Park in Raleigh County. These events will be held on June 13. Children receive basic fishing instruction and get to enjoy time fishing.