COLUMBUS, OH - The third annual National Fishing and Boating Week will be observed June 1-8 with local events held across the state. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), recreational boating and fishing offer families and friends excellent opportunities to share fun and quality time together while enjoying the great outdoors.
More people are now enjoying vacations closer to home and boating and fishing are wonderful family activities, said ODNR Director Sam Speck. This is a great time to rediscover the great boating and fishing opportunities available on Ohios waterways and at our state parks.
In May, Ohio hosts various community-based events promoting waterway activities and celebration of National Fishing and Boating Week June 1-8. Among these events are:
The Cleveland Lake Erie Boating and Fishing Fest May 31 and June 1 again will be held along the downtown lakefront near Cleveland Browns Stadium and is free of charge to the public. The event will feature various marine demonstrations, informational exhibits, Take Me Boating introductory rides, brief fishing excursions, plus displays of various marine rescue equipment.
Also on May 31 and June 1 is the Discover Sailing event hosted by harbor North Marina in Huron. One-hour introductory sailboat rides, soft drinks and hot dogs will be provided both days from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
According to ODNR, numerous studies have shown that being with family and friends, relaxing and being outdoors and close to nature are the primary reasons people go boating and fishing.
Studies further show that many Americans believe outdoor recreation strengthens the family as a unit and children as individuals, and that people who participate frequently in outdoor recreation are more satisfied with life overall.