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.
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Val Cannell says
The free fishing days are just for a weekend, so if you plan to go other than the free weekend, you’ll need the license!
Tammie says
I obtained a fishers license im wondering i made the right choice