Enter the Jones County June Family Fishing Challenge!
Fishing with a child can be a very trying and special experience; an experience that is well worth the effort. Fishing is a skill that is often passed down from generation to generation; a skill that sadly many kids never have the opportunity to learn. Fishing makes lasting memories! 
You have the opportunity to make memories for a child in your life! The weekend of June 7, 8, and 9, 2024 is Iowa’s free fishing days. During those three days’ Iowa residents do not need a license to fish. You must still abide by all other state fishing rules and regulations. That means there is one less excuse why you can not go fishing.
In conjunction with free fishing days and throughout the entire month of June the Jones County Conservation Board along with the Friends of Jones County Conservation and Nature Center, Murray's Outdoor Store, and Theisen’s of Anamosa have donated prizes for families who get out fishing in Jones County and submit photos of their family and their catch. Fish can be kept to eat or just caught for fun and released safely back into the water. Participants can fish in any public water-body in Jones County, as well as their own farm pond or a pond they have permission to access.
Don't have your own fishing equipment or bait? Loaner rods/reels, tackle, and bait are available for check-out at the Central Park Nature Center on Saturdays and Sunday, 1-5 PM and during the week when staff are present.
Every family that submits a digital photo will be entered into a drawing for prizes at the end of June. Prize winners will be notified in early July. Photos entered may be posted on the JCCB website or Facebook page. Please submit your digital photos including water-body name, date of fishing trip, and contact information to conservationofficemg@co.jones.ia.us All photos must be submitted by June 30th.
Participants 16 and over should have a valid fishing license and everyone fishing should follow Iowa’s fishing rules and regulations. Current Iowa DNR fishing information can be found at https://www.iowadnr.gov/fishing
So whether you’re an expert at fishing or have never touched a rod and reel in your life now’s the perfect chance to have some fun and make lasting memories.
For a listing of fishing locations in Jones County visit https://www.jonescountyiowa.gov/conservation/
