ATHENS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife will be hosting the third annual youth fishing float on the Hocking River on Thursday, July 10 in Hocking County near Logan. This event pairs youth age 12 to 15 with Division of Wildlife fisheries biologists to experience a day of river fishing while canoeing the Hocking River.

Participants will receive instruction on all aspects of fishing including aquatic habitats, equipment use, laws and regulations, and how to fillet and care for your catch. All fishing and canoeing equipment will be provided at no cost to those who are drawn to participate.

Six participants will be chosen through a lottery style drawing. Youth age 12 to 15 interested in participating must submit a postcard or letter that includes their name, address, telephone number and date of birth to the Division of Wildlife district four office located at 360 East State Street, Athens, Ohio 45701. Entries will be accepted beginning May 1, 2008 and must be postmarked by June 14, 2008. Telephone entries will not be accepted. Individuals that are drawn to participate will be contacted on or before Friday, June 20.

In the event of rain or poor river conditions the event will be rescheduled at the soonest date that river conditions return to normal.

For more information, contact Dan Perko or Susie Vance at (740) 589-9930.