The nonprofit Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation tells us that research from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that kids spend an astounding 44 hours a week with TV, computers and video games. Perhaps that’s why Richard Louv, author of “Last Child in the Woods,” says that kids today suffer from “nature-deficit disorder.”

Therefore, National Fishing & Boating Week, June 4-12, was created to get families moving in the right direction. The aim is to help kids connect to nature and build a foundation to stay connected into adulthood.

Hoosiers are encouraged to load up the car with friends, family and fishing poles June 10-11 and enjoy a free weekend of fishing.

Hoosier adults do not need a license to fish Indiana’s public waters during Free Fishing Weekend. Children under the age of 17 do not need a fishing license at any time.

To help kids and adults celebrate Free Fishing Weekend, recreation areas located across Indiana are planning fun fishing derbies, casting clinics, fish printing demonstrations and fish cleaning and cooking classes.

Check out a new lake or river, or introduce friends and family to a favorite fishing spot. Some properties require pre-registration. Call your favorite property for details. Or check out our Web site at: www.dnr.IN.gov/fishwild/fish/freefish/freefish.html.