Many city dwellers don’t get a lot of opportunities to go fishing, or even learn about it. If your family has thought about fishing, but didn’t know where or how to get started, several events in June could serve as a jumpstart.

In concert with the annual National Fishing and Boating Week, a country-wide celebration held the first week in June, Massachusetts is offering statewide free fishing and various fun fishing events this weekend (June 7 and 8) and beyond. Normally those over the age of 16 are required to obtain a license, but this weekend anyone can fish any public freshwater lake, pond, reservoir, river or stream statewide. In addition to this weekend, there are several more fishing programs coming up in June throughout the state (all listed below).

A fantastic primer for all things to do with fishing and boating is the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation. On their excellent website Take Me Fishing, you can find events, tips, a community forum, a blog, links to get a fishing or boating license and much more. The “Fishing with Your Family” section offers tons of advice, safety information, pages just for kids with games and fun facts.

It may go without saying, but it’s wise to remember that on or near the water, kids should always wear a personal floatation device, even if they know how to swim. The right clothing and gear, like hats and insect repellant, are important, and learning how to handle fishing hooks and other equipment properly will make your fishing trips much more enjoyable.

GO FISH!

All of the programs below are free, non-competitive, family-friendly, learn-to-fish events. Bring your fishing equipment or borrow some (limited equipment and bait will be provided).

Saturday, June 7
Spot Pond Family Fishing Festival, Stoneham
Sponsored by DCR and the Stoneham Police. Located at Straw Point on the north end of Spot Pond accessed from New South Street.
From 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Buffumville Lake Family Fishing Festival, Charlton
Sponsored by the MassWildlife Angler Education Program in cooperation with the US Army Corps of Engineers Buffumville Lake, the Charlton Conservation Department and the MassWildlife Angler Education Program. Located at the North Cove Picnic Area off Oxford Rd. in Charlton.
From 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Saturday, June 14
Great Falls Discovery Center Family Fishing Day, Turners Falls
Located at the Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls.
From 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Sunday, June 15
Endicott Park, Family Fishing Festival, Danvers
Sponsored by the MassWildlife Angler Education Program and Danvers Recreation. Located at Endicott Park, 57 Forest Street, Danvers. The event is free, but all visitors are subject to a $1 resident vehicle or $3 non-resident vehicle user fee. 
From 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Saturday, June 21
Great Meadows Family Fishing Day, Sudbury
Located at the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, 73 Weir Hill Road, Sudbury.
From 10 a.m-2 p.m.