11-66-CWS | June 1, 2011
BILOXI, Miss. – The first weekend of National Fishing and Boating Week in June of each year is designated as “Free Fishing Weekend.” In 2011, those dates are June 4 and 5. The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) would like anglers to know that any person may saltwater sport fish without a license in the marine waters of Mississippi (waters south of Interstate 10) during “Free Fishing Weekend.” Although anglers are not required to have a recreational saltwater license on June 4 and 5, they still need to adhere to all size and possession limits.
In addition, July 4 of each year is designated as “Free Saltwater Sport Fishing Day” on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Any person may saltwater sport fish without a recreational saltwater fishing license on July 4 in the marine waters of Mississippi.
““Creel limits and size limits of fish are still in effect,” said Walter Chataginer, MDMR Marine Patrol’s Chief of Enforcement. “This just entitles recreational anglers to fish the first weekend in June and on July 4 without a recreational saltwater fishing license.”
Saltwater sport fishing licenses expire one year after date of sale.
For more information, contact the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources at (228) 374-5000 or visit dmr.ms.gov.
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is dedicated to enhancing, protecting and conserving marine interests of the state by managing all marine life, public trust wetlands, adjacent uplands and waterfront areas to provide for the optimal commercial, recreational, educational and economic uses of these resources consistent with environmental concerns and social changes. Visit the DMR online at dmr.ms.gov.
Contact: Lauren Thompson
Phone: 228-523-4053
PHOTO CAPTION: No recreational saltwater fishing licenses are needed this weekend (June 4 and 5) to fish in Mississippi’s marine waters.
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