Free Fishing Days in Ohio and other states

Get the family to some water for National Fishing and Boating Week, a celebration of fishing and boating the first week of June every year. The week highlights the benefits of recreational boating and fishing, as well as preserving our country’s natural beauty.

Each state celebrates different weekends with free fishing days throughout the year.

Many states offer Free Days for Fishing on select weekends to celebrate. Anglers of all ages are allowed to fish on public bodies of water without a license.

Free Fishing Days in Ohio

It’s free to fish in Ohio this year over Father’s Day Weekend – June 17-18, 2023– no fishing license required! Check out the Take Me Fishing resources for Ohio, including top spots to fish, rules and regulations, and more.

Free Fishing Days in Neighboring States

Neighboring states have different free days for fishing, so it’s the perfect chance to plan a day or weekend trip for some fishing.

Michigan: Winter: Feb 18-19, 2023, Summer: June 10-11, 2023
Indiana: May 7, June 3-4, and National Public Lands Day September 23, 2023
Pennsylvania: Sunday before Memorial Day. May 28, 2023 and Independence Day, July 4, 2023
Kentucky: June 3-4, 2023
Ohio: Father’s Day Weekend, June 17-18, 2023
West Virginia: Second Saturday and Sunday in June. June 10-11, 2023

For a full list of participating states and dates if you’re traveling, click here.