Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons has proclaimed Saturday as Free Fishing Day, allowing residents and nonresidents alike to fish in any public fishing water in the state without a fishing license or trout stamp.

In the Proclamation, the Governor, declares fishing to be a family friendly activity that contributes to the physical well-being and happiness of the people of the state, and adds that fishing instills a love of nature, an interest in conservation and provides families an activity they can enjoy together for a lifetime.

"Free Fishing Day provides the perfect opportunity for families to spend the day together in an activity they may have never tried before," said Nevada Department of Wildlife Regional Outdoor Education coordinator, Chris Vasey.

He adds that the department has planted fish in many of Nevada's waters in preparation for Saturday. "Your chances should be pretty good for catching a fish," he said.

Saturday will mark the 21st annual Free Fishing Day in Nevada, and the department has teamed up with several groups and agencies to hold events statewide.

Nevada State Parks will allow free admission to parks for each individual who has a fishing pole in hand.

Eastern Nevada

* Andorno Ranch, North on Highway 95, less than 40 miles from Winnemucca.

Prizes will be awarded for the biggest fish as well as raffle prizes. The event will run from 8 a.m. to moon.

* Chinese Garden Ponds near Carlin -- Kids Fishing Derby with a free drawing for prizes. The derby will run from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Call Joe Doucette at 1-775-777-2305 for more information.

* Cave Lake State Park -- A Kids Free Fishing Day Derby with a free drawing for prizes is scheduled from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Contact Norv Dallin at 1-775-777-2391 for more information.

Southern Nevada

* Echo Canyon State Park -- There will be a Free Fishing Day Derby with lots of prizes for kids and raffle prizes. Lunch is available for a small donation. The event is scheduled for 8 a.m. to noon with registration on site.

* Lake Mead -- Free Fishing Day Clinic. The first 400 kids between 12-15 years of age will receive a tackle box and have a chance to win one of 120 other prizes.

The event is a joint effort between the department and the National Park Service along with the Bureau of Reclamation, the University of Nevada Las Vegas Public Lands Institute and several members of Southern Nevada fishing organizations.

Registration will open at 8 a.m. at the Hemenway fishing point on the shore of Lake Mead

Western Nevada

* Sparks Marina - Free Fishing Day event includes free T-shirts and fishing poles until supplies run out. The event includes free food (hot dogs, ice cream and soda), games and face painting, and is scheduled to run from 7 to 11 a.m.

"Remember, Free Fishing Day is statewide," said Vasey. "People are allowed to fish in any public fishing water in the state without needing a fishing license or trout stamp. We want people to get out there and check out what Nevada has to offer, and maybe if you like what you see, you will think about buying a license for the year or a short term permit."

An annual fishing license in Nevada costs $29, $13 for a junior (12 - 15 years of age) or a senior (65 years of age or older) fishing license, and $9 for as short term fishing permit.

Fishing licenses are available online at www.ndow.org