Heart Lake fishing closure for Kids Fishing event

Effective dates: 12:01 a.m. June 3 through June 6, 2015. The lake is open for anglers participating in the Kids Fishing event June 6 from 6 a.m. through 12:00 p.m. Only youth anglers will be allowed to fish after the event for the remainder of the day.

Species affected: All game fish.

Location: Heart Lake, located within the city limits of Anacortes in Skagit County.

Reasons for action: This rule change is necessary to ensure a successful Kids Fishing event. The fish will be stocked in the lake two days prior to the event to better acclimate them. On the day of the event, only children 14 years of age or younger will be allowed to fish in the lake.

Other information: The Kids Fishing event is sponsored by the City of Anacortes Parks and Recreation, and the Fidalgo-San Juan Chapter of the Puget Sound Anglers, and has been held annually for more than 20 years. The event offers children an opportunity to participate and learn about fishing who would otherwise not get the chance. For all participants a free barbeque will be provided.

Information Contact: For information on how you can participate in the event, please contact Nicole Johnston, City of Anacortes Parks and Recreation at (360) 293-1918. For information about this rule change, please contact Brett Barkdull, WDFW District 14 Fish Biologist, (360) 466-4345 ext. 270 or Brett.Barkdull@dfw.wa.gov .