Free Kids Fishing Events Coming to Cody and Lovell on June 6

There are few outdoor experiences that create lasting memories quite like a child catching their first fish. Families across the Bighorn Basin will have two opportunities to share that experience when free Kids Fishing Day events take place in Cody and Lovell on Saturday, June 6.

Held in conjunction with Wyoming’s annual Free Fishing Day and National Fishing and Boating Week, both events are designed to introduce young anglers to the sport while encouraging families to spend time outdoors together.

Lovell Event Celebrates Improved Community Pond

In Lovell, activities will take place at the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area Visitor Center from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The event begins with a special rededication ceremony for the Visitor Center pond, which recently underwent expansion and improvements made possible through donated resources from Bairco Construction. The upgraded pond will serve as a community fishing destination and educational resource for years to come.

The June 6 event will also launch the National Park Service’s new “Reel” Fun Adventures program, a series of hands-on fishing experiences designed to help youth, families, and first-time anglers learn the basics of fishing throughout the summer.

Cody Event Features Competition, Lunch, and Prizes

In Cody, the annual Kids Fishing Day will be held at the Beck Lake Complex and is being co-hosted by the Cody Optimists Club, East Yellowstone Chapter of Trout Unlimited, and the Shoshone National Forest.

Registration runs from 8 to 9 a.m., with the children’s fishing competition beginning at 9 a.m.

The first 350 children ages 14 and under who register will receive a free fishing pole and gift bag. Participants can also enjoy a free hot dog lunch beginning at 11 a.m., courtesy of the Cody Optimists Club.

The event concludes with prize drawings and awards at 1 p.m.

Families are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, although bait and a limited number of fishing poles and equipment will be available on-site. Organizers also recommend dressing for changing weather conditions, as Wyoming’s early June weather can be unpredictable.

A Perfect Opportunity to Get Outside

The events coincide with Wyoming’s Free Fishing Day, which allows residents and visitors to fish statewide without purchasing a fishing license or Conservation Stamp on June 6. While licenses are waived for the day, all fishing regulations, creel limits, and other rules remain in effect.

For many young anglers, Kids Fishing Day provides more than an opportunity to catch fish. It offers a chance to learn patience, connect with nature, spend quality time with family, and build a lifelong appreciation for Wyoming’s remarkable fisheries and outdoor traditions.

Whether casting a line at Beck Lake in Cody or celebrating the newly improved pond in Lovell, June 6 promises a fun-filled day for families looking to enjoy one of Wyoming’s favorite outdoor pastimes.