Free fishing days are a perfect opportunity for beginners to try out fishing for the first time. If you already have a fishing license, consider taking a friend or family member who has never been fishing, out on the water for the day.



Find out what you need to get out on the water. Learn how to fish, find places to fish and boat using our interactive map, get a fishing license or register your boat.



During National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW), all states (and Washington, DC) offer free fishing days. These are days – some states even offer free fishing weekends – where anglers can go fishing without a license on public bodies of water. Free Fishing Days activities vary by state. For free fishing day Texas, the state releases hundreds of catfish to help beginners catch a bite. Free fishing day California is known for the many varieties of fish made available. Check out the Free Fishing Days 2020 activities in your state to see how your state celebrates this fun-for-all-ages event.



NFBW is a national celebration of fishing and boating, an event that highlights the importance of recreational boating and fishing in enhancing our quality of life and preserving our country's natural beauty. This year the event will take place on June 6-14, 2020. Learn more about National Fishing and Boating Week.