The Hopkinton Reservoir Family Fishing Festival, giving area residents a chance to learn about local species, area waterways, and fishing safety, ethics, and equipment, takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. Sponsored by the state’s Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and Department of Conservation of Recreation, the all-ages event is free, and fishing equipment and bait will be available. Children should be accompanied by a parent. Signs will be posted by the Hopkinton State Park’s entrance on Cedar Street (Route 85) directing participants where to meet instructor Jim Lagacy. -Ellen Ishkanian