"These two days are a great way to get introduced to a lifetime hobby like fishing," said Peter Bourque, Director of Fisheries for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, "It's the start of summer vacation for the kids, it's Father's Day weekend, so why don't you kids take dad fishing? There are plenty of fishing opportunities throughout the state this weekend. Trout and salmon fishing are really picking up in the north country and many of our larger rivers and streams are producing great brookie, brown and rainbow trout fishing in central and southern Maine. Bass Action should be topnotch in the south, central and Downeast regions."

For those who are trying fishing for the first time and do not own equipment, a limited amount of equipment is available through the "Hooked on Fishing" program. There is loaner equipment available at Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife regional offices throughout the state. To find out the nearest location near you, please call the "Hooked on Fishing" Volunteer Coordinator at 207-287-8069.

The Free Fishing Days coincide with Father's Day Weekend each year. There also are two free fishing days in the winter that take place on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Presidents Day.

"We want to encourage people to be outside, enjoying the outdoors, and fishing is a great way to do that," said Bourque, "Don't forget your camera, sunscreen and bugdope!."