TOBYHANNA, Pa. — Fishermen are reeling in some big catches on the pier at Tobyhanna State Park in Monroe County.
"Hey, you know what they say, a bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at work," said Tommy Cardaci of Tobyhanna.
Even though Tommy Cardaci is a long time fisherman, he came out to Tobyhanna Lake on fish for free day.
It's one of the few days of the year when the Fish and Boat Commission lets people fish without a license. He brought his license but forgot some other things at home.
"This is the way you always catch fish because when you're not prepared, that's when you catch them. I don't have my net, my stringer. But I have power bait, and I've got my pole, so we'll see what happens," added Cardaci.
Newswatch 16 found other families enjoying the morning, getting ready to cast a line out on the lake.
Russell Nasella of Newfoundland made it out before the crowds.
"Well, I wanted to go fishing. I haven't been fishing in so long; maybe if I get up early enough and get out, it turned out to be a good day. I caught 2 fish already," said Nasella.
Fishermen say they hope the fish for free days get others hooked on the sport.
"It's just a nice thing to do; I've been doing this since I was a kid. I haven't done it as much as I want lately, but it's definitely fun," added Nasella.
"There's no age limit; just come out and have fun. You never know what could happen. Catching fish is secondary, it's being out in the beautiful area is primary; that's what I like about it," said Cardaci.
The days to fish are becoming numbered at Tobyhanna Lake.
The PA Fish and Boat Commission plans to drain the lake at Tobyhanna State Park in September for a dam replacement project.