A "Free Sportfishing Day" will highlight National Fishing and Boating Week, allowing anglers to fish any public waters in Texas without a fishing license on Saturday, June 2, 2001.

Texas Parks and Wildlife officials said the special day, authorized by the Texas Legislature, is intended to promote fishing and encourage people to enjoy the state's fishing resources.

Roy Lawrence, TPW law enforcement director of field operations, said resident and nonresident recreational anglers will be allowed to fish without a license and will not be required to have special stamps such as the saltwater sportfishing or freshwater trout stamps.

No fishing license will be required to fish in any state park waters on June 2, but park entry and facility use fees apply. Camping reservations are recommended.

National Fishing Week will be observed across the nation June 1- 10 with a variety of activities centered on fishing as family recreation. About one in five Americans enjoy fishing, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Numerous youth fishing activities are scheduled around the state during National Fishing Week, including special fish stockings in community lakes.

National Fishing Week is supported by a grant from the Federal Sport Fish Restoration program.

Following are some of the fishing events scheduled around the state on June 2.

Port O'Connor -- Texas Gulf Coast Roundup -- Bait Doc, Byers and Intracoastal Waterway. Join the TPW staff and anglers to collect fish for the hatchery program, aquariums, education and research. Open to all anglers. Must be 21 years of age to participate. 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Call (800) 792-1112 or (512) 389-4649. Possum Kingdom Lake -- Adopt-A-Fisherman -- Youth fishing tournament for ages 1-16. 8 a.m.-noon. (940) 723-7327.

Martin Dies Jr. State Park -- 11th Annual Kid's Fish Flop Tournament -- Kid's fishing tournament. Open to children 16 years and under. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: 6 and under, 7-11, and 12-16. Tournament desk located at the Walnut Ridge boat ramp. 8 a.m.-noon. (409) 384-5231.

Cooper Lake State Park/South Sulphur Unit -- Kid's Fishing Day -- Bring your fishing gear to the Honey Creek Fishing Pier for lots of fun and prizes. For children 12 and younger. 9-11 a.m., reservations available but not required. (903) 945-5256.

Lake Arrowhead State Park -- Ninth Annual Youth Fishing Contest and Adult Rough Fish Contest -- The Youth Fishing Contest is for kids age 3-16 years. The Adult Rough Fish Contest is open to guests 17 years old and older. Prizes will be awarded for both contests. Tackle and bait will be furnished to youth contestants while supplies last. Call for more information during regular business hours. (940) 528-2211.

Purtis Creek State Park -- Fish and Play Day -- The Friends of Purtis Creek will host a morning of education and fun. There will be a fishing contest, games, wildlife exhibition and a free hot dog lunch. 8 a.m.-noon. (903) 425-2332.

Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway -- Free Fishing Day -- Enjoy fishing in Lake Theo on the day that no fishing license is required. Park entrance fee still applies. (806) 455-1492.

Copper Breaks State Park -- Free Fishing Day -- No fishing license will be required to fish in state park waters June 2. Call for more information. (940) 839-4331.

Sea Center Texas -- Fishing at Sea Center on National Fishing Day -- This event is open to guests 16 years old and younger. Pack sunscreen, hat and fishing gear for a morning of fishing at the marine fish hatchery and visitor education center in Lake Jackson. Anglers must bring own gear and bait. Volunteers and staff will be on hand to assist first-time anglers. Limit three fish per child. 8-10 a.m., events are free but donations are appreciated. (979) 292-0100.

Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center -- Junior Angler Adventure and Fishing Festival, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Fun for the whole family in a festive atmosphere. Fishing, outdoor games and activities, fishing clinics, and educational exhibits on native wildlife, conservation, and more. Free admission for kids, prizes, free hot dogs and refreshments. (903) 676-2277.