Bethel Library, in conjunction with DEEP (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection) and CARES (Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education), are offering a hands-on learn to fish event designed to increase your fishing skills and confidence.
This event will be held at Bennett Memorial Park (14 Shelter Rock Rd in Bethel) on Monday, July 19th. Fishing field trips are designed for adults ages 16 and up, as well as families with children 8 years old and above. The program will provide loaner fishing equipment, bait, and expert instruction.
Here's how to participate:
1. Conservation Identification Number (CID) is required to register for all fishing field trips. If you currently have a fishing license, this number is at the top of the license. Otherwise, use the CID link to create a new account to apply for a fishing license. If you have not purchased a fishing license in CT in the past 10 years, you will first have to register as a “New Customer". State license fee is $28. Participants ages 16 and up must have a valid CT fishing license to participate.
2. Participants ages 15 and below must obtain a free CID before registering for a fishing field trip by getting a YOUth Fishing Passport or creating an account in the Online Licensing System (directions here)
3. After securing a CID, Register for the Special Fishing Event here. (Scroll down til you find the July 19th event at Bennett Memorial Park). The class is limited to 35 people. Registration is through the DEEP site.
5. What to bring to the fishing field trip: (Note: Fishing field trip participants under the age of 16 must have a parent or legal guardian present for the entirety of the event)
- Mask
- Bring your own fishing equipment or borrow ours
- Chair (folding, sports or camping) for sitting
- Cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish you catch
Happy fishing!!