SALEM, Ore ??? Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife staff encourage Oregonians and visitors to fish, crab and clam without a license during the 19th annual Free Fishing Weekend June 9 and 10. All current fishing and shellfish regulations apply.

More than 40 Free Fishing Events will be held at sites throughout the state. Most are geared toward introductory angling opportunities for young people. Gear, bait and basic angling instruction are provided at most events. Some locations are accessible to disabled anglers. For a list of event locations and times, visit the ODFW Web site, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/free_fishing/ or call 503-947-6002.

"Fishing is fun. I believe no activity brings a family together quite like fishing," said Chris Willard, ODFW Angler and Aquatic Education coordinator. "Free Fishing Weekend is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors and it gives anglers a perfect opportunity to pass on their knowledge by taking a friend, neighbor or colleague fishing."

ODFW recently developed an Easy Angling Oregon and Warmwater Fishing in Oregon booklets and Web sites to help families and individuals find the right spot to take advantage of fishing opportunities in Oregon.

The Free Fishing Weekend celebration began in 1988 as a way to encourage more people to become involved in angling and the outdoors.

Many of the most popular fishing waters around the state are stocked with additional rainbow trout in preparation for Free Fishing Weekend. Interested anglers are encouraged to use the ODFW Recreation Report, available on the Web site and updated weekly, to help them select a fishing destination.