Blackwater NWR to hold Youth Fishing Fun Day June 1

In partnership with the Friends of Blackwater and the Harriet Tubman State Park, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge will hold its annual Youth Fishing Fun Day on Saturday, June 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This family-friendly event will be held at the refuge pond behind the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center, located off Maryland Route 335. Young people 15 years old and under can pre-register for the event by calling 410-228-2677 or register at the event on June 1. Fishing will begin at 9 a.m. and end around 1 p.m.

The first 100 registered youth to check in at the event will receive a t-shirt and special gift. Each registered youth will also receive a free lunch ticket for a hot dog, drink and chips.

Bait (nightcrawlers) will be provided for anglers, or they may bring their own bait or lures. A limited number of “loaner” fishing rods will be available, but anglers are encouraged to bring their own if they have one. As always, staff and volunteers are on hand to provide assistance to any of the young anglers who might need help.

Parents should note that this is a non-competitive, catch-and-release event to introduce children to the fun of fishing. Any snakeheads that are caught may be kept, but cannot be transported live. No pets are allowed at this event. Anyone with questions should email fw5rw_BWNWR@fws.gov.

To get to the event from U.S. Route 50 in Cambridge, turn onto Maryland Route 16 West, travel approximately 7 miles to Church Creek, turn left onto Maryland Route 335 and travel approximately 5 miles. Once you pass Key Wallace Drive on your left, turn right at the entrance to the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center. Park in the secondary parking lot next to the pavilion behind the Tubman Visitor Center. For further information and pre-registration, call 410-228-2677.