Free Fishing Day for Kids Set for June 1 in Casper

A popular opportunity for kids to fish for free in Casper is coming up in about two weeks.

The 24th Annual Kid's Fishing Day, put on by the Community Recreation Foundation, is set for Saturday, June 1 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Yesness Pond, which is located at 4100 SW Wyoming Boulevard.

There's no cost to participate. The event is open to kids age 14 and under, accompanied by their parents. Registration begins at 9 a.m. the morning of the event.

Because the event is so well-attended, families whose last names begin with the letter A through M will fish from 9 a.m. to noon. Then, families whose last names begin with the letter N through Z will fish from noon to 3 p.m.

All participants will receive a goody bag to ensure that no one leaves empty-handed.

Before the event begins, the pond will be stocked with 1,500 trout. Catfish will also be stocked in the pond this year.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own poles and lures/bait. North Platte Walleyes Unlimited will have available a limited number of fishing poles and tackle for those in need of gear. Sportsman's Warehouse will supply bait.

Those attending will want to dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Parking spaces at the pond are limited. Overflow parking can be found at Crest Hill Elementary School, which is located at 4445 S. Poplar.

The event is sponsored by the Community Recreation Foundation in cooperation with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, North Platte Walleyes Unlimited, Wyoming Fly Casters, Trout Unlimited, Sportsman's Warehouse and Wagner's Sporting Goods.

More information is available from the Casper Recreation Center at 235-8383.