With gas prices at record highs and grocery costs climbing, anything free is a true gift. During the weekend of June 7-8, anglers across the state can fish free on any public waters in Kentucky. No fishing license or trout permit is required these two days as part of the annual Free Fishing Weekend.

From the reports I am getting, and the weather forecast, it should be a good weekend for it. Jesse Duncan, a guide on Barren River Lake states that “Bass fishing is picking up. Fish have spawned and are starting the post spawn feed.

Hybrids are good one day slow the next.

Catfish are starting to move to the banks for spawning, and noodling will be starting soon, unless the water temps stay in the 60's.”

I don't have anything from Dave Stewart over on Kentucky Lake/Lake Barkley. I imagine Dave is pretty busy right now and just hasn't had time to send an updated report. But reading the reports from around the state, they all pretty much mirror each other in that the bass are in their post spawn cycle, and the catfish are moving into shallow water to spawn.

Locally the bluegill are still putting on a good bite, but Crappie fishing has slowed down some. Let's not forget our farm ponds right now, those and our two local pay lakes provide for a lot of close in fun and success, especially during this period of “on again, off again” storms that have a tendency to cloud up the larger lakes, and streams. Both Frank Kondracki and Duane Whitaker provide clean areas, geared toward family fun and well stocked, well maintained lakes.

Our area trout streams were well stocked last month, however they won't be stocked again until after this weekend is over. Lick fork and Sulphur over in Simpson County as well as Little Whiporwill here in Logan are scheduled for late next week however. In spite of that, there are plenty of fish in all three locations.

We are again at that time of year where encounters with young wildlife frequently happens. Remember, more than likely that critter is not orphaned (especially deer) and you should leave them where you find them and move quickly away from them. For one thing, you put the life of the animal in danger, and for another it is against the law.

Let's try to remain safe in our outdoor adventures, whether that is boating, fishing, or right now, squirrel hunting. That season remains open for a few more days.