Minnesota residents can fish without a license in most state parks beginning July 1.

The new program is the latest lure in the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) tackle box of ideas to sustain the state's storied fishing tradition. "Minnesota has amazing state parks, most of which are located on lakes and rivers," said Dave Schad, DNR Fish and Wildlife director.

Under Minnesota law, anyone age 16 or older is required to have a state fishing license unless fishing during the free Take A Kid Fishing weekends or some other exemption.

The Minnesota state parks fishing license exemption allows park visitors to fish without a license when shore fishing or wading on state-owned land within a state park. All limits and special regulations in effect for the body of water being fished apply. When angling from a boat or float, the law applies only to those water bodies that are completely encompassed within the statutory boundary of the state park.

Anglers must possess a valid license when fishing in Minnesota's six state recreation areas; on waters where a trout stamp is required; and when fishing in any city, county, regional or federal park.

For a list of Minnesota state parks and the water bodies where the new law applies, visit the DNR's Parks and Trails Division online information at http://www.dnr.state. mn.us/state_parks/fishing. html.