Sunday is the start of National Fishing and Boating Week, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has made it Fish for Free Day, when anyone can fish in the state without a license.

There is no excuse not to round up the kids and head for one of the many lakes to put in an afternoon of fishing fun.

The equipment needed for bluegill, sunfish, perch and crappie is minimal. A hook, sinker and bobber will do the job with any type of red worm or grub.

Turning youngsters on to fishing at an early age is an ideal opportunity to teach them about the outdoors and recreation that does not involve an electronic game. Very few will turn down the chance to go fishing, if it's presented in the right manner.

If fishing is not your interest, try boating. Moraine State Park has a well-equipped boat livery on the South Shore. The rental marina provides all types of watercraft for a healthy day in the surf and sun.

From canoes, paddleboats, kayaks, sailboats to motor boats and pontoon boats, you will find something that will give you a chance to participate in the fun. Keep in mind your skill level and overall physical condition. A kayak can be fun, but it might take a bit more work than a ride on a pontoon boat.

Many families take advantage of a boat rental to test the waters, so to speak, and find out if boat ownership is a good idea for them.

If you are only going to take a boat out once or twice a year, it makes much more sense to rent a boat. Boats can become an expensive hobby and the use of a boat can pay off, depending on the frequency of its use.

For example, will it be a fishing boat, a ski boat or a pontoon boat for family activity? Will you have one person, four or 10 on board?

For many, buying a boat is an impulse purchase. With a little more self-restraint, we can do our homework and explore what's out there for a new boater.

The current condition of the economy and the price of fuel have created a buyers market. There are many great deals on new and used boats. A boat is just like a car: Once it hits the water, depreciation sets in. A crafty consumer can make the most of any opportunities that present themselves.

However, there are many hidden costs as well.

For example, some of the items that a typical fishing boat needs are safety equipment, personal flotation devices, horn, throwable ring or cushion, fire extinguisher, and flares.

Then you need boat bumpers, lines, anchors, a light system and perhaps electronics, such as a GPS, fish finder and weather radio.

Did I mention fishing equipment or a place to store your boat?

So when I wish you a safe fishing and boating week, I mean it and that idea of taking a kid fishing on Fish for Free Day looks a whole lot better now!