One weekend out of every year is designated as Free Fishing Days in Kansas.

That time is next Saturday and Sunday. On those two days, anyone can fish without a license.

Kansas has hundreds of lakes and streams, including numerous conveniently located community lakes. Finding the ideal fishing location is as simple as going to www.kdwp.state.ks.us.

Public fishing waters also are listed in the Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary, available on the Web or in printed form at Wildlife and Parks offices and license vendors around the state.

The summary also provides a fish identification guide, length and creel limits and a variety of additional information.

Looking for the latest information on where the fish are biting? Check out the Fishing Reports section of the Website for up-to-date conditions compiled by fisheries biologists and other anglers.

Another useful source of information is the Fishing Forecast, a species-by-species guide that rates fishing prospects at lakes around the state.

Here are a few basic guidelines to make the most of any fishing experience:

¢ Make it a kid’s adventure, allowing time for wading, skipping rocks, collecting wild flowers, finding insects, taking pictures or otherwise enjoying the outdoors.

¢ Use simple tackle and techniques, such as worm-baited hooks fished 2 or 3 feet under a bobber to allow fish to find the bait, rather than the repeated casting required with lures.

¢ Fish for plentiful and easily caught fish such as sunfish, crappie or carp, rather than more specialized and finicky fare such as bass or walleye;

¢ Keep only fish that you plan to eat, and introduce youth to the catch-and-release concept.

¢ Bring food, snacks and drinks to add to the pleasure of a family outing.

And don’t forget the sunscreen, insect repellent, hats and sunglasses. Any child 12 or younger must wear a personal flotation device while fishing from a boat.