For the sixth year, the free 2010 Texas Parks and Wildlife Summer Family Fishing classes are kicking off this spring break.
Parents and kids (six and older) are invited to come out to the Lost Pines state parks to learn and improve their fishing skills. On Saturday, March 13, come to the pond in Bastrop State Park. On Tuesday, March 16, come to the pond in Buescher State Park.
Both events start at 9 a.m. There will be five instruction stations, where participants will learn about fish ecology, tying knots, casting, learning about Texas fishing laws and reviewing water safety skills. The kids get little gifts at every station. After they complete the class, they get a diploma and a cool fish pin. Then they all get to fish.
Bring fishing poles or use the ones TPWD provides. The park will also have a selection of bait. At noon there will be a drawing for the kids for fishing tackle, tackle boxes and rod and reel combos. The event will be over by 12:30 p.m.
There is no advanced registration for this event. Please wear clothing appropriate for the outdoors. Attendees are advised to have hats, closed-toe shoes, sunblock and water. Although this is a free event, regular park entrance fees apply. There will be four more fishing classes this summer, including Bastrop State Park on June 12 and July 10 and Buescher State Park on June 19 and July 17. For more information, contact the park office.