Pennsylvania is home to more than 1 million anglers, but we are always looking to attract even more residents to this fun sport. As a way to offer more fishing opportunities for families, the state offers two Fish for Free days each year.

For 2015, the Fish for Free days are scheduled for Sunday, May 24, and Saturday, July 4. During Fish for Free days, anyone (resident or nonresident) is allowed to legally fish on all Pennsylvania waterways. No license is required. All other fishing regulations will still apply.

This is a great way to expose the next generation of anglers to the outdoors.

In addition to special free fishing days, the state also launched a youth mentoring program a couple of years ago with great success. The program helps older, more experienced anglers share their love of the sport with a youth new to the fun of fishing.

In fact, due to interest in the program, the state this year is opening the Mentored Youth Trout Days program to include all trout waters stocked by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC), instead of only a limited number per region.

The first Mentored Youth Trout Day will be held on March 28, the Saturday prior to the regional opening day of trout season in 18 southern counties, including Lehigh and Northampton. The second one will be held on April 11, the Saturday prior to the statewide opening day of trout season. Mentors and children can each keep two trout that measure at least 7 inches.

To participate, adult anglers must have a valid fishing license and trout/salmon permit and be accompanied by a youth. Youth anglers must obtain a free PFBC-issued permit or a voluntary youth fishing license (only $2.70, including all fees). Both are available at www.GoneFishingPA.com.

The PFBC annually stocks approximately 3.2 million adult trout in more than 700 streams and 120 lakes open to public fishing. These figures include approximately 2 million rainbow trout, 641,000 brown trout and 525,000 brook trout. Stocking is expected to take place in advance of the mentored youth days.

For those looking to enjoy some trout fishing throughout the entire season, you might want to check out the 2015 adult trout stocking guide, which is now available online at www.JulieHarhart.com. A limited number of hard copies are also available in my district offices at 2030 Center St. in Northampton and the Slatington Borough Hall, 125 S. Walnut St. in Slatington.

Fishing licenses this year are reduced by $1 for residents, nonresidents and senior residents. With the discount, the price of a resident annual license will be just $20; non-resident annual, $50; and senior annual resident, $9. A $1.70 processing fee will be added to each transaction.

Anglers also can purchase an optional 2015 fishing license button for just $5. The 2015 color is pink. Buttons serve as a valid display requirement.

Fishing is a great, affordable family activity. For more information on the Mentored Youth Fishing program and other programs and news impacting anglers, check out the link on my website titled "Information for Sportsmen."