June 3, 2022 3:20 a.m.

With this Saturday and Sunday being Free Fishing Weekend in Oregon, staff with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife are partnering with other organizations to present two special activities.

Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ODFW’s Salmon Trout Enhancement Program is working with the Umpqua Fisherman’s Association to provide a free fishing event at Cooper Creek Reservoir. Rods, tackle, bait and fishing instruction will be provided. Kids can participate in games and make a fish-print at the art station as well as prizes for fish caught during those hours. A fish cleaning station is also provided for the public to use.

Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ODFW STEP is working with volunteers, the Oregon Coast Anglers and the U.S. Forest Service to provide a free event at Lake Marie near Reedsport. The same equipment and activities will be available. In addition, a “kids only” area will be stocked with fish to provide an opportunity for kids to catch their first fish.

For questions about either day’s happenings, call 464-2157. For more information about Free Fishing Weekend, go to: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2022/05_May/052622b.asp