'Take Me ICE Fishing' event Saturday

Stocked with fishing tackle, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's "Take Me Fishing" trailers travel to local waters across the state to promote fishing opportunities. The trailers are most busy during the warm summer months; however, there are numerous opportunities in North Idaho to get out of the house and fish through the ice in the winter.

IDFG has scheduled a "Take Me ICE Fishing" event for Saturday, at Cocolalla Lake from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Cocolalla Lake is on the west side of U.S. 95, north of Athol. The trailer and barbecue will be at the boat launch/campground on the north end of the lake. Follow the "Sportsman Access" signs on the west side of U.S. 95 just north of the Westmond store. There will be free hot dogs and hot chocolate for all attending.

Fishing equipment and bait can be checked out for free during the event. IDFG employees, Cabela's employees and volunteers will use gas powered ice augers to drill holes for everyone attending. Reservations are not needed and equipment is checked out on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have your own equipment, please bring it so there is plenty to go around.

Participants will not need a license to fish during the hours of the event, however all other rules apply. Idaho children 13 years old and under can always fish for free. These events give their parents, older siblings and friends the opportunity to try fishing without purchasing a license.

Getting kids excited about fishing will help build a new generation of anglers. The only thing kids and their parents need to do is show up.