Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife officials announced that events are scheduled statewide for the 17th annual Free Fishing Weekend, June 11-12.

Observed each June, the weekend offers Oregon residents and visitors a full weekend to fish, crab and clam without a license. All other fishing and shellfish harvest regulations remain in effect.

The free fishing event began in 1988 as a way to encourage more people to become involved in angling and the outdoors.

ODFW sponsors events at sites throughout the state, mostly geared toward introductory angling opportunities for youth. Many are accessible to disabled anglers.

Locations of local area ODFW events are listed below:

Coos County - Eel Lake in Tugman State Park, June 11, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Powers Pond in Powers County Park, June 11, 7:30 a.m. to noon.

Curry County - Elk River Hatchery, June 11 and 12, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For participants 10 years of age and younger (disabled access available); Libby Pond, June 11, 8 a.m. to noon. For participants 14 years of age and younger (no boat access).

More information can be found on the ODFW Web site at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/free_fishing.