Packer Lake Kids’ Fishing Day Returns July 18

LAKES BASIN — Families will have a chance to spend a summer morning fishing at Packer Lake when the annual Packer Lake Kids’ Fishing Day returns Saturday, July 18.

The free event is scheduled from 8 AM to 1 PM. Tahoe National Forest, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and the Sierra County Fish and Wildlife Commission are hosting the event, which is open to community members and visitors.

Packer Lake will be stocked with fish for the day courtesy of CDFW, and extra fishing poles will be available for children to borrow. Organizers say the event is intended to give children an easy way to try fishing, while also offering families a day outdoors in the Lakes Basin area. Loaner fishing gear will be made available for participating children.

The program will include more than fishing. Tahoe National Forest and the Sierra County Fish and Wildlife Commission will offer arts and crafts focused on fishing, aquatic species, and terrestrial species found in the surrounding forest. In past events, exhibits have also included live wildlife common in the region.

Visitors should also plan for a full day outside at a mountain lake. Organizers recommend bringing sunscreen and bug spray, along with a picnic or money to purchase food and drinks at the lake.

Dogs and boats will not be allowed at the event. Participants should also bring an ice chest if they hope to take fish home.

Adults and older teens should pay attention to license rules before casting a line. In California, anyone 16 or older must have a valid sport fishing license to fish, and July 18 is not one of California’s 2026 Free Fishing Days. CDFW says children 15 and younger can fish for free year-round in California.