The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources invites people of all ages to celebrate hunting, fishing and the great outdoors at the Salato Wildlife Education Center in Frankfort on Saturday, Aug. 5.
Activities and demonstrations will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) with free admission into the center during this event. The center features animals in naturalized enclosures, conservation displays and hiking trails through a variety of habitats.
National Hunting and Fishing Day events at Salato will include 3-D archery, archery trap shooting, air rifles, laser shot, casting and fishing. Center staff will provide all equipment, poles and bait. Events will also include a presentation by conservation officers, a tutorial on how to field dressing game and hunting retriever dog demonstration. Western Hills High School FFA will sell food and drinks at the event.
National Hunting and Fishing Day began in the United States more than four decades ago. The Salato Center, which is operated by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, celebrates the event early instead of the traditional date in September.
“By holding our celebration in August, people can begin making preparations for the fall hunting seasons that are just around the corner,” said Salato Conservation Educator Geoff Roberts. “This is also a great way for beginners to receive a fun, hands-on introduction to fishing and shooting sports.”
Hunting and fishing licenses are available for purchase at the center. Individuals can also complete the range day portion of their hunter education course during the event.
The Salato Center event recognizes the contributions to conservation made by the 713,000 Kentucky hunters and anglers, and the 35,000 jobs that hunting, fishing and outdoor activities support.
For a detailed list of activities and times, contact the center at (502) 564-7863.
The center is located off U.S. 60, approximately 1½ miles west of the U.S. 127 intersection. Look for the bronze deer statue at the entrance of the main Kentucky Fish and Wildlife campus.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Salato is closed on Sunday, Monday and state holidays.
Except for select events, admission is $5 for adults and $3 for youth 5 to 18. Children under five are admitted free. The center also offers annual memberships for individuals and families.
(story provided by Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources)
