National Free Fishing Days
Want to fish for free? Many states offer “free fishing days” where residents and visitors can fish without a license.
These days are a great opportunity for people to try out fishing for the first time, or for experienced anglers to introduce a friend or family member to the sport. Gotta love not needing a fishing license for just one trip!!
Popular State Dates
Here are a few of the big fishing states dates that are every year. Below is a list linking to state pages to find your exact dates!
- Florida:
- Freshwater: First weekend in April
- Saltwater: First weekend in June
- Texas: First Saturday in June
- California: Typically mid-July and early SeptemberNew to boating? Find captained charters near you – no experience or license needed.
- New York: February (winter fishing weekend) and late June
- Illinois: Father’s Day weekend (June)
- Washington: First weekend in June
So mark your calendars and get ready to seize this remarkable promotion!
Find Free Fishing Days for Your State
The specific dates vary from state to state. So, just click the link below next to your state to find out when your state is offering free fishing days.
They can change anytime so best to check with your state website before going!
| Alabama | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days AL |
| Alaska | Residents under 18 and over 60 as well as disabled veterans fish for free year-round; other residents are required to have a fishing license. More info about Free Fishing Days AK |
| Arizona | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days AZ |
| Arkansas | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days AR |
| California | More info about Free Fishing Days CA |
| Colorado | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days CO |
| Connecticut | More info about Free Fishing Days CT |
| DC | Usually first week in June More info about Free Fishing Days DC |
| Delaware | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days DE |
| Florida | First consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June, First Saturday in September, Saturday following Thanksgiving More info about Free Fishing Days FL |
| Georgia | Usually first week in June More info about Free Fishing Days GA |
| Hawaii | 365 days a year (marine) More info about Free Fishing Days HI |
| Idaho | More info about Free Fishing Days ID |
| Illinois | More info about Free Fishing Days IL |
| Indiana | May 4, June 7-8, and Sept. 27 More info about Free Fishing Days IN |
| Iowa | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days IA |
| Kansas | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days KS |
| Kentucky | More info about Free Fishing Days KY |
| Louisiana | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days LA |
| Maine | More info about Free Fishing Days ME |
| Maryland | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days MD |
| Massachusetts | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days MA |
| Michigan | Mid February – First weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days MI |
| Minnesota | Residents can fish without a fishing license in most state parks year-round More info about Free Fishing Days MN |
| Mississippi | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days MS |
| Missouri | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days MO |
| Montana | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days MT |
| Nebraska | More info about Free Fishing Days NE |
| Nevada | More info about Free Fishing Days NV |
| New Hampshire | More info about Free Fishing Days NH |
| New Jersey | More info about Free Fishing Days NJ |
| New Mexico | More info about Free Fishing Days NM |
| New York | President’s Day Weekend National Hunting and Fishing Day November 11 (Veterans Day) More info about Free Fishing Days NY |
| North Carolina | July 4 Independence Day More info about Free Fishing Days NC |
| North Dakota | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days ND |
| Ohio | Usually mid June More info about Free Fishing Days OH |
| Oklahoma | Usually first weekend in June (a free paddlefish permit is still required) More info about Free Fishing Days OK |
| Oregon | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days OR |
| Pennsylvania | More info about Free Fishing Days PA |
| Rhode Island | More info about Free Fishing Days RI |
| South Carolina | Memorial Day & July 4 (freshwater only) More info about Free Fishing Days SC |
| South Dakota | More info about Free Fishing Days SD |
| Tennessee | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days TN |
| Texas | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days TX |
| Utah | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days UT |
| Vermont | More info about Free Fishing Days VT |
| Virginia | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days VA |
| Washington | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days WA |
| West Virginia | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days WV |
| Wisconsin | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days WI |
| Wyoming | Usually first weekend in June More info about Free Fishing Days WY |
Join the annual fun and connect with fellow fishing enthusiasts during Free Fishing Days.
FAQ About Free Fishing Days
What are Free Fishing Days?
Free Fishing Days are special dates when states allow residents and visitors to fish without needing a fishing license. These events are designed to introduce more people to fishing and outdoor recreation.
Do I need a fishing license on Free Fishing Days?
In most states, you do not need a fishing license on designated Free Fishing Days. However, some locations may still require permits for certain species, lakes, or special areas.
Are Free Fishing Days available in every state?
Many states offer Free Fishing Days, but dates and rules vary by state. Some states offer one day, while others offer multiple weekends or seasonal opportunities.
Can kids fish for free year-round?
Some states allow children under a certain age to fish without a license all year long. Age limits vary by state.
Can non-residents fish on Free Fishing Days?
Many states allow both residents and non-residents to participate, but rules can vary. Always check your state’s official wildlife or fish and game website.
Do regular fishing rules still apply?
Yes. Size limits, bag limits, season dates, and location restrictions still apply even on Free Fishing Days.
What should I bring on Free Fishing Days?
Bring a fishing rod, bait or tackle, sunscreen, water, and any required permits if needed. It is also smart to review local fishing rules before you go.
When do most Free Fishing Days happen?
Many states hold Free Fishing Days in late spring or early summer, often around June, but some states also offer winter or fall dates.
Where can I find my state’s Free Fishing Days?
You can check your state wildlife agency, fish and game department, or our updated Free Fishing Days by state guide.
Are Free Fishing Days good for beginners?
Yes. Free Fishing Days are one of the best times for beginners to try fishing without paying for a license first.
