Trout stocking, free fishing at Tempe, AZ Town Lake celebration on Nov. 20

The City of Tempe and the Arizona Game And Fish Department will host the annual Welcome Back the Trout celebration from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 20, at the SRP Tempe Town Lake Marina. The public is invited to come down and watch as thousands of rainbow trout are released into the lake.

Arizona Game and Fish will conduct a free fishing clinic starting at 3 p.m. About 100 free loaner rods, reels and bait will be available during the event, along with instruction and tips from seasoned anglers. People with their own fishing gear can also fish at the event without a fishing license (during event hours only; a license is required at other times). Information on obtaining a license for future use can be found at http://www.azgfd.gov/eservices/licenses.shtml.

“This is a wonderful community event that the city is proud to present with Arizona Game and Fish,” said Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell. “Every year, it is great to see families and community members enjoying the lake as young children learn to fish.”

"Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced fishing pro, this is a great event to come out and fish,” said Eric Swanson, manager of Game and Fish’s Urban Fishing Program. “It’s a perfect opportunity for families to spend some quality time together and enjoy the outdoors.”

For more information and a map of Tempe Town Lake, visit http://www.tempe.gov/lake.