Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation is eager to announce a new partnership with the Idaho Fish and Game: The State Park Fishing Equipment Loaner Program.
The program, which will include six parks, is aimed to increase awareness of the many fishing opportunities within Idaho’s state parks. With fishing locations at, or near, most parks, IDPR and Fish and Game wanted to eliminate some of the barriers that might coincide with those interested in fishing — such as lack of equipment. Each of the participating parks will receive 16 rods and will have access to tackle and bait for park visitors.
The first six parks will be piloting the program for the season; both agencies hope to increase the number of participating parks in the coming years.
If you are interested in the State Park Fishing Equipment Loaner Program, visit idfg.idaho.gov or parksandrecreation.idaho.gov or stop by one of the following Idaho state parks:
- Round Lake State Park near Sagle
- Priest Lake State Park near Coolin
- Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park near Cataldo
- Winchester Lake State Park near Winchester
- Bruneau Dunes State Park near Bruneau
- Henrys Lake State Park near Island Park
“Idaho Fish and Game is excited to partner with Idaho Parks and Recreation on a project to help park visitors take advantage of the abundant fishing opportunities available in our state parks and surrounding areas,” said Ian Malepeai, Fish and Game marketing director. "We see a natural synergy to raise the awareness of the fantastic fishing in Idaho and providing park visitors with fishing equipment to enjoy additional activities on their visit."
Participants over the age of 14 will need a fishing license while using the loaner rods. Licenses can be purchased online, by phone, at any Fish and Game office, or at various convenience stores and outdoor retailers across the state — $11.50 for a daily pass or $30.50 for an annual license.
The program is just in time for Free Fishing Day, which will be June 8 — during which you can fish anywhere in the state without a license. Keep in mind, all rules and catch limits still apply.
