NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

September 24, 1998

CONTACT: Chip Leavine (941) 648-3200

FAMILY FISHING FESTIVAL SLATED FOR PASCO COUNTY

A special family fishing festival will soon be coming to the Withlacoochee River Park, east of Dade City, in Pasco County. Both young and old can learn the basics of fishing and try out their new skills on the spot.

"This is a free event designed to encourage fishing as a wholesome, family activity," said Chip Leavine, wildlife officer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

To reach the Withlacoochee River Park from either north or south on U.S. Highway 301, take the U.S. 98 by-pass in Dade City to River Road, turn east on River Road and follow the signs.

Joining the FWC in hosting the event is the Pasco County Parks and Recreation Department and the Friends of the Park. The festival will be held on Saturday, October 10 and will get underway at 8:00 a.m. Free hot dogs and drinks will be provided.

While the event ends at 12:00 noon, participants are encouraged to stay as long as they like and enjoy the park's fishing. Participants between the ages of 16 and 65 years of age must possess a valid freshwater fishing license. Some tackle will be available for use if you don't have your own.

"Volunteers will be on hand to teach participants about the right equipment to use, baits and rigging, casting and how to clean and prepare their catch," Leavine said.

The event will have several fishing stations where volunteer instructors will help new anglers try out their new skills. In addition, a special reptile show will be held to help folks learn how to identify and deal with reptiles.

The Trilby Masonic Lodge #141 will also be providing the free Masonic Child Identification Program. This program provides children's fingerprints plus video pictures, speech and individual mannerisms. Both the fingerprints and video recording will be given to parents to take home for safe keeping.

"Participants may want to bring lawn chairs, insect repellant and sun screen so they can better enjoy the day," said Leavine.

For more information about this event, contact (352) 567-0264.