JEFFERSON CITY—State Sen. Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, urges local residents to take part in the Missouri Department of Conservation’s annual Free Fishing Days this year on June 8 and 9. The department suspends resident and nonresident fishing permit requirements on the Saturday and Sunday after the first Monday in June each year.

“Fishing is a wonderful pastime enjoyed by countless Missourians,” said Sen. Walsh. “This annual weekend event gives the uninitiated a chance to try their hand at fishing without having to acquire a permit or tags. I urge citizens in the 13th District to take part, especially those with children. Fishing is a wonderful family activity, and a great way to spend a summer day.”

Residents can fish at any of the more than 900 lakes on conservation areas without a permit or tag on the weekend of June 8 and 9.

After that, citizens will need to purchase a 2013 fishing permit, available at numerous local vendors and online here or by visiting http://www2.mo.wildlifelicense.com/start.php. The 2012 fishing permit expired on Feb. 28.

For more information on Conservation events, visit its official Missouri website at www.mdc.mo.gov.