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My Memories of Fishing With My Dad.
I was maybe 5 or 6 when my dad took me up to the mountains to a little pond. The spring air was a bit chilly and the flowers were just starting to bloom. Dad was so excited! He sat me down and started telling me all about bobbers, how to hold the pole, and how to hold the release on the reel when casting. He held my hand and helped me cast the line for the first time. Then we sat and talked a bit about things. I can’t remember exactly what, maybe it was about what we were going to do with the fish we caught. I just loved being there with him.
The time passed and we talked more. Then suddenly Dad caught a fish. I dropped my pole and I remember him saying “No, You need to hold your pole. I’ll be fine. Keep fishing.” I watched him carefully and picked up my pole. Dad was good. He held the pole in one hand and scooped up the fish in his net with the other hand. The fish was HUGE! Dad put it in his basket and we resumed waiting and talking. I was just about ready to give up and go home, I felt a tug. It was a BIG tug! Dad jumped up and grabbed the pole and reeled the fish in. I had caught my FIRST fish! I was happy, but dad BEAMED.
He was so happy and proud.
This became a tradition for us to go out each spring by ourselves and just sit, fish, and talk. There were times we caught many fish and times when we didn’t get anything but, it was wonderful.
The free fishing events are a great way to introduce your kids to fishing and see if they may be interested in fishing or maybe just a yearly tradition.
The weekend of June 67th & 778th is a free fishing weekend here in Colorado where you can fish without a license no matter your age. Remember all other rules and regulations still apply.
FYI: Kids under 16 are ALWAYS FREE! Anytime of year.
FYI.. I've since won some fishing derbies and the only ice fishing derby I ever entered.
My dad also taught my daughter to fish. He's taken her to the local fishing derby by their house for years!
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Free fishing days are June 6th & 7th.
You can create your own tradition over this weekend by creating your own magic over the free fishing weekend. Find a lake, bring a snack or lunch then Picnic or snack, talk and connect over a peaceful fishing trip. Make sure the lake is open and boating is allowed. Kids 16 and under can fish free anytime of the year but anyone over 17 has to have a license.
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Fun Colorado Fishing Facts:
- Colorado boasts 35 species of cold-water and warm-water fish.
- Our state features many highly regarded fishing destinations, including more than 1300 lakes and reservoirs and 6000 miles of high-altitude streams.
- 321 miles of those streams are designated Gold Medal waters and managed for high-quality fishing!
- Fishing is not only a hugely popular activity in Colorado but an enormous boost to our economy.
- The greenback cutthroat trout, Colorado's state fish, was once considered extinct. But, they are making a comeback thanks to CPW staff, volunteers, and partner organizations.
RESOURCES:
- CPW Fishing Basics Guide (Equipment and Quick Tips)
- Where to Fish (Interactive Map)
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife 2026 Fishing Guide
- Get your digital fishing license (Spanish)
- Download the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Fishing App
- Stocking Report
- Upcoming Various CPW Events, Fishing Events & Tournaments
