Oregon State Parks is participating in Free Fishing Weekend again this year and Park Rangers in the West Columbia River Gorge are looking for volunteers with fishing experience to assist in the Free Fishing Day event at Benson State Park on Saturday, June 3rd. During the first full weekend of every June, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife allows residents and visitors of Oregon to fish, crab, and clam without a license (regulations still apply, of course) in hopes of introducing more people to the joys of fishing. Oregon State Parks is supportive of that goal and assists by waiving the day use fee at any Oregon State Park with a boat launch.

To enhance visitors' fishing experience, we are holding a Free Fishing Day event at Benson State Park that provides loaner fishing poles, as well as lessons on tying hooks, baiting, casting, etc. Volunteers will work in conjunction with park staff to help visitors with these basic tasks and provide information and guidance for those new to fishing.

There is potable water on site and restrooms are close by, but there are no food vendors around, so we suggest folks bring a snack. Dogs are welcome, on leash, but unfortunately they can not swim in the lake. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their families so that they can enjoy a relaxing day of fishing. Remember, parking is free!