Get free fishing tips at ‘Fish with a Warden’ events at Little River
On Labor Day weekend, anyone can be a fishing mentor
August 20, 2025 | By Waterbury Roundabout Are you new to fishing and have lots of questions? Have you thought it would be fun to fish with a guide to pick up tips and tricks? Maybe you’d like to check out a new fishing spot and want to know what to expect and how to be best prepared.
Anglers cast off at the dock near the Waterbury Dam. Photo by Gordon Miller
Well, two state departments have teamed up for “Fish with a Warden” sessions to do just that at popular fishing spots around Vermont. Free expert advice while you fish is available at these mentored events, and two of these upcoming opportunities are in Waterbury — tomorrow, Aug. 21, and Saturday, Aug. 30.
Up to 35 people can sign up and both dates are still wide open for registration. Both events will be held at the Waterbury Dam at Little River State Park, from 6 to 8 p.m.
“We know many anglers have questions they would like to ask a warden, and we know many of our wardens also like to go fishing, so our Vermont State Game Wardens have teamed up with Forests, Parks and Recreation staff to offer Fish with a Warden sessions this summer,” said Education Specialist Corey Hart, who is organizing the sessions.
In addition to Little River, anglers can also Fish with a Warden on Aug. 30 at Bomoseen State Park in Fair Haven and Silver Lake State Park in Barnard, both also are 6-8 p.m. Several others have been held this summer in St. Albans, Groton, and Shaftsbury.
Hart said the sessions that give the public an opportunity to go fishing with Fish and Wildlife Department staff are well-suited for new anglers before they head out fishing on their own, and for others with enough experience to have questions.
Participants need to have a fishing license and their own fishing equipment. State park fees are waived for those who register in advance on the Fish & Wildlife website. See the Upcoming Events list.
New this year, Free Mentored Fishing Weekend invites experienced Vermont anglers to share their skills and passion by guiding adults who may not have grown up fishing. New anglers can experience the thrill of landing a fish without needing a license during Free Mentored Fishing Weekend. Vt. Dept. of Fish & Wildlife photo
Labor Day weekend: Be a fishing mentor
Already know the ropes to fish like a pro? Consider taking some new anglers out over Labor Day weekend.
The state recently approved the creation of Free Mentored Fishing Weekend where experienced anglers may take up to four unlicensed friends or family members out to fish.
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department asking those who regularly spends time on the water to consider leading their own party on Aug. 30-Sept. 1. Kids 15 and under already fish for free. This weekend opportunity is for those new to fishing or those who have been away from it for some time.
“Every one of us who fishes has a story about the parent, grandparent or friend who showed us the ropes,” said Shawn Good, a fish biologist with the department. “If you’re an experienced angler, the new Free Mentored Fishing Weekend is your chance to be that person for someone else. Invite a friend, a co-worker, or a neighbor to join you. Show them your favorite spot, lend them some gear and teach them what you know. That’s how traditions are passed on.”
No special steps are needed. The lead angler needs to have a fishing license.
The Fish & Wildlife website has a mentoring page with tips on fishing spots, advice on how to be a good mentor, and even some fishing recipes.