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Subcommittee expands free fishing days from three to six, says sponsor
Summary
HB 13‑65 to increase the number of free fishing days from three to six yearly was reported unanimously by the subcommittee; sponsors said expanding free days helps recruit new anglers and can increase future license sales and conservation funding.
House Bill 13‑65, sponsored by Delegate Buddy Fowler, was reported out of the subcommittee by a unanimous vote after the sponsor explained that expanding free fishing days is intended to encourage outdoor participation and to convert new participants into paid license buyers over time.
Fowler cited surveys showing that free fishing events reach new or lapsed anglers and argued that broader participation strengthens conservation funding because hunting and fishing license sales drive federal matching dollars and a significant portion of DWR revenue. The committee voted 10‑0 to report the bill.
