Free Fishing Days scheduled for June 11 and 12

The Missouri Department of Conservation has designated June 11 and 12 as Free Fishing Days in Missouri.

On those days, anyone can fish at Missouri Department of Conservation areas and most other places in the state without having to buy a fishing permit.

Each year, the Conservation Department designates the weekend after the first Monday in June as Free Fishing Days. Requirements for special permits still apply at some county, city or private fishing areas.

You can fish for stocked rainbow trout in state parks or catch bluegills and catfish at community lakes statewide. Those looking for a special challenge or for solitude can pursue wild trout in specially managed stretches of Ozark streams.

"This is just one way we say thank you to Missourians for their support throughout the year," said Fisheries Division administrator Steve Eder. "If you haven't fished in a while, you can do it on us this weekend. You might even bring home supper."

Although Missouri residents and nonresidents can fish without state permits on Free Fishing Days, normal regulations -- such as limits on the size and number of fish you can keep -- remain in effect. Regulations are outlined in the 2005 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations, a free booklet available at bait shops and other outdoors retailers.