Free fishing opportunities abound in June

Whether you prefer fresh or salt, there are some great fishing opportunities available free in June, at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier and at the Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center in Awendaw.

--From 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, the Folly Beach Anglers will hold their second "Free Take A Kid Fishing Day and Tournament" at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier.

The Folly Beach Anglers will be on hand to instruct parents and children. They will pay the fishing fee, provide bait and double drop rigs, offer coaching and will have some loaner outfits available for those who do not have a rod and reel. The only cost is parking at the pier.

The club will offer prizes for the top boy and girl anglers ages 11 and younger and for the top boy and girl angler ages 12-16. There also will be a $50 grand champion prize for the biggest fish of the day, and giveaways at the end of the event. Contact dntculpepper@comcast.net.

--A month full of fishing opportunities begins this week at the Sewee Visitor Center, located at 5821 Highway 17N in Awendaw.

The Wheelin' Sportsman Event and Catfish Roundup will be held Saturday from 8 a.m.-noon. This is an event for disabled men, women and children. Pre-registration is suggested. Call Jannah Dupre at (843) 887-3257.

Also Saturday from 10 a.m.-noon, a kids fishing workshop, "Youth Fishing 101" will be held. It is recommended for children ages 6-1 accompanied by an adult and will be taught by the East Cooper Fishing Club.

It will teach where, what tackle, how to tie a good knot, how to make a fish bite, how to hold a fish, how to stay safe and other important aspects of fishing. Registration is required; call (843) 928-3368.

A Youth Fishing Rodeo for youth aged 6-16 will be June 12 from 8-11 a.m. in celebration of National Fishing Week. Registration is required by June 10 and there must be one adult per two children. Call (843) 928-3368.

On June 19, there will be a Community Fishing Celebration from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with participants allowed to fish Sewee Pond. Fishing is open to all ages, and no registration is required.

Also, at 10 a.m. June 26 participants will get an opportunity to paddle Quenby and Huger creeks and the East Branch of the Cooper River with Nature Adventure Outfitters in celebration of National Rivers Month. There is a fee. Call (843) 568-3222 to register, or visit www.natureadventuresoutfitters.com.