Elementary school-aged kids can learn to fish for free at an event at Lake Artemesia in May.

The DeMatha Fishing Club will give away poles, rigging and bait to the first 25 kids who register for the event who do not have their own fishing gear.

Event organizer Conner Hayes told the Hyattsville Wire that they hope it will teach younger kids how to fish “with the hopes of growing the sport and love of it.”

Considered one of the better freshwater family-friendly fishing spots in the area, the 38-acre manmade lake near College Park is stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish and crappie, and you can also see the occasional turtle.

Fall and spring are considered the best times to fish there, as the water temperature is between 50 and 70 degrees. Maryland residents over the age of 16 have to pay for an annual $20 non-tidal fishing license; fees vary for out-of-state residents.

The event will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, at Lake Artemesia. Children must be accompanied by an adult guardian.

You can register for the event here.

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