Comprehensive Guide To 2017 Fishing Freebies Events And Family Activities

Free fishing opportunities in 2017 provided numerous options for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking budget-friendly recreational activities. Across the United States, anglers could take advantage of state-sponsored free fishing days, retailer-hosted events with complimentary activities, and various promotional offers related to fishing equipment and products. This guide examines the diverse fishing freebies available throughout 2017, helping consumers maximize their outdoor experiences without incurring costs.

State-Sponsored Free Fishing Days

Several states designated specific days throughout 2017 when residents and visitors could fish without purchasing a license. These free fishing days presented an excellent opportunity for families to try fishing without financial commitment.

Florida offered multiple free fishing days in 2017, with separate dates for freshwater and saltwater fishing. The freshwater free fishing days occurred on: - Saturday and Sunday, April 1 & 2 - Saturday and Sunday, June 10 & 11

For saltwater fishing enthusiasts, Florida provided free fishing on: - Saturday and Sunday, June 3 & 4 - Saturday, September 2 - Saturday, November 25

These dates allowed Florida residents and visitors to experience the state's diverse fishing opportunities without the requirement of a fishing license. The variety of dates throughout different seasons provided opportunities to fish in various conditions and target different species.

Other states also participated in National Free Fishing Days, though specific dates varied by location. Consumers were encouraged to check with their state's wildlife or natural resources department to determine the exact dates for free fishing in their area. These state-sponsored programs typically aimed to introduce newcomers to fishing and provide existing anglers with additional opportunities to enjoy their sport.

Retailer Fishing Events and Promotions

Major outdoor retailers and fishing equipment companies hosted special events throughout 2017, offering numerous free activities and giveaways to customers and community members.

Bass Pro Shops held their annual Spring Fishing Classic from February 17 through March 5, 2017. This multi-week event featured numerous complimentary activities appealing to both children and adults. The free offerings included:

• Kids' Casting Pond
• Kids' Craft activity creating a Wood Bobber Door Sign
• Kids' Fish Foam Cap
• Free Fishing Photo Downloads
• Kids' Fishing Patch
• Kids' Fishing Workshop
• Women's Fishing Workshop
• Pro Seminars led by industry experts

The event emphasized family-friendly activities and educational opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Bass Pro Shops noted that specific activities and offerings might vary by location, encouraging attendees to check their local store's schedule for complete details. These events not only provided entertainment but also served as educational opportunities to introduce newcomers to fishing and help experienced anglers enhance their skills.

In addition to Bass Pro Shops, other retailers and organizations hosted fishing-related events with free components. Some events featured exhibitors including tackle manufacturers, marine artists, fishing clubs, and tackle retailers. These gatherings often included boat open houses, allowing attendees to inspect vessels and speak with captains and crews about fishing opportunities. Certain events offered boat rides around local waters for a nominal fee, such as $4.00 per person for rides around San Diego Bay.

Fishing-Related Free Samples and Products

Beyond event-based freebies, several companies offered complimentary fishing-related products and samples in 2017. These promotions allowed consumers to try products before purchasing and provided additional value to fishing enthusiasts.

Enfagrow, a baby formula company, offered a free 10 oz sample to parents and caregivers. To receive this complimentary product, interested individuals needed to complete a simple online form and provide their baby's birthday information. The sample typically arrived within 4-6 weeks of request. Additionally, new Enfamil Family Beginnings members received a set of Holiday Belly Badges within 1-2 weeks of joining. This promotion specifically targeted parents of babies who were formula-fed, providing a practical freebie for families in that demographic.

Publishers also contributed to the fishing freebie landscape with complimentary magazine subscriptions. Family Fun Magazine offered a free one-year subscription (valued at over $27) to interested readers. To claim this offer, consumers needed to navigate through the subscription process carefully, declining any additional offers or chances to win prizes that appeared during the sign-up process. The magazine typically arrived within 6-8 weeks, and subscribers confirmed they would not receive a bill for the complimentary subscription.

Digital resources complemented the physical freebies available to fishing enthusiasts. A DIY Cleaning and Organizing eBook was offered as a complimentary resource, helping individuals organize their homes in preparation for hosting fishing gatherings or storing equipment properly. While not directly fishing-related, such resources supported the broader lifestyle associated with fishing enthusiasts.

Family-Friendly Fishing Activities

Numerous organizations hosted free fishing events specifically designed for children and families throughout 2017. These activities provided safe, structured environments for young people to experience fishing and learn about aquatic ecosystems.

In Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, several kids' fishing derbies were scheduled throughout the year. These events typically featured:

• Paradise Sportsman's Association Kids Fish Day: Held the third Saturday in May from 7am to 1pm on Londonland Run along Quarry Road in Paradise Township. This event was free for children 12 and under, with participants required to bring their own fishing equipment. The event prohibited treble hooks and spinners and offered hot dogs and sodas for sale.

• Family Fun Day Free Fish Day: Originally scheduled for May 26, 2019 at Lititz Run Stream along Route 772 and Clay Road, hosted by the Lititz Sportsmen's Association. However, documentation indicated this event might no longer be active.

• Handicap Fishing Derby: Scheduled for June 1, 2019 at Riparian Park along Route 772 and Clay Road in Warwick Township. Available from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., though documentation suggested this event might not be continuing.

• Friends Of Fishing Creek Kids Fishing Derby: An early June event requiring pre-registration and limited to 60 children ages 5-12. Parents or guardians were required to accompany children, and the event was held at Valley Lea Riding Club in Drumore Township. Documentation indicated this event might no longer be active.

In addition to these specific events, organizations like the National Hunting and Fishing Day celebration at Middlecreek Wildlife Center in September provided annual opportunities for families to engage with fishing activities. These events often included educational components, equipment demonstrations, and hands-on fishing experiences designed specifically for children.

Additional Free Fishing Resources

Beyond dedicated fishing events and products, various organizations and businesses incorporated fishing-related freebies into their promotional calendars throughout 2017.

Food service establishments occasionally offered fishing-themed promotions. On International Talk Like a Pirate Day, Long John Silver's provided complimentary pieces of Alaskan whitefish to diners who used pirate-themed language and phrases. Additionally, visitors who dressed in at least three pieces of pirate costume items received a free two-piece fish basket. This promotion combined food with the fishing theme, creating a unique promotional opportunity.

Cultural institutions also contributed to the fishing freebie landscape. Smithsonian magazine's Museum Day Live!, held annually in September, offered free entry to participating museums and learning institutions, with more than 1,000 establishments nationwide participating in 2017. While not exclusively fishing-related, many natural history and science museums featured aquatic exhibits or fishing-related displays during this free admission period.

Coffee retailers participated in September promotions that appealed to early morning anglers. National Coffee Day, celebrated on September 29, saw numerous coffee shops and restaurants offering free or nearly free coffee. For example, Peet's Coffee provided free medium drip coffee with any food purchase, while Krispy Kreme offered free small coffees and glazed doughnuts. These promotions complemented early morning fishing trips or provided refreshment after fishing excursions.

Conclusion

The landscape of fishing freebies in 2017 offered numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and casual participants to enjoy fishing-related activities without financial barriers. State-sponsored free fishing days provided legal access to fishing waters without requiring licenses, while retailer events like Bass Pro Shops' Spring Fishing Classic offered educational workshops and family-friendly activities. Complimentary products, from baby formula to magazine subscriptions, added value for consumers, and specialized events for children introduced the next generation to fishing. Additionally, various businesses and cultural institutions incorporated fishing themes into their promotional calendars, creating diverse opportunities for free or discounted experiences.

For consumers interested in fishing freebies, the key to maximizing these opportunities lay in staying informed about dates, locations, and requirements. State wildlife departments typically published free fishing day schedules, while retailer websites and local stores announced event details. By taking advantage of these resources, fishing enthusiasts could plan their activities to coincide with free offerings, enhancing their recreational experiences while minimizing expenses.

Sources

1. TrueMoneySaver - Free Florida Fishing Days 2017
2. Freebie-Depot - Bass Pro Shops Spring Fishing Classic 2017
3. TrueMoneySaver - Four Freebies including Family Fun Magazine
4. SouthernSavers - Free Fishing Days 2017
5. NBC Washington - Freebies in September 2017
6. 976Bite - Fishing Event Information
7. Frugal Lancaster - Kids Fishing Derbies