FishKillFlea· Guides · 3 min read
Free Fishing Days 2026 — Every State's Schedule
Complete list of free fishing days in 2026 for all 50 US states. Fish without a license on these designated dates.
Every year, most US states designate specific days when anyone can fish without a license. These free fishing days are designed to introduce new anglers to the sport and celebrate the outdoors.
What Are Free Fishing Days?
Free fishing days are state-designated dates when the fishing license requirement is waived. Key facts:
- All other regulations still apply — catch limits, size limits, and gear restrictions remain in effect
- No special registration needed in most states
- Available to residents and non-residents alike
- Great for families — try fishing before committing to a license purchase
2026 Free Fishing Days by State
Note: Dates for 2026 are confirmed as states announce them. Check back regularly for updates.
Northeast
| State | Free Fishing Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | June 13, 2026 | One day |
| Maine | Feb 15, June 13, 2026 | Ice fishing + open water |
| Massachusetts | TBA (typically June) | Usually one Saturday |
| New Hampshire | January 24, June 6, 2026 | Winter + summer |
| New York | June 27–28, Sept 26, Nov 14, 2026 | Multiple dates |
| Vermont | January 24, June 13, 2026 | Winter + National Fishing Day |
Southeast
| State | Free Fishing Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | April 4, June 6–7, Sept 5, Nov 28, 2026 | Multiple throughout year |
| Georgia | June 6, Sept 26, 2026 | Two dates |
| North Carolina | July 4, 2026 | Independence Day |
| South Carolina | TBA | Usually early July |
| Virginia | June 6–7, 2026 | First weekend in June |
Midwest
| State | Free Fishing Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | June 12–15, 2026 | Extended weekend |
| Indiana | June 6–7, 2026 | First weekend in June |
| Michigan | June 13–14, Feb 14–15, 2026 | Summer + winter |
| Minnesota | June 6–7, Jan 17–19, 2026 | Two weekends |
| Ohio | June 13, 2026 | One day |
| Wisconsin | June 6–7, Jan 17–18, 2026 | Two weekends |
West
| State | Free Fishing Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | July 4, Sept 5, 2026 | Two dates |
| Colorado | June 6, 2026 | First weekend in June |
| Montana | June 13–14, 2026 | Weekend |
| Oregon | June 6–7, Nov 27–28, 2026 | Two weekends |
| Washington | June 13, 2026 | One day |
| Wyoming | June 6, 2026 | First Saturday in June |
South / Southwest
| State | Free Fishing Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | June 6, 2026 | One day |
| Texas | June 6, 2026 | First Saturday in June |
| Oklahoma | June 6–7, 2026 | First weekend in June |
| Louisiana | June 6–7, 2026 | Weekend |
Tips for Free Fishing Days
1. Plan Ahead
Free fishing days attract crowds. Arrive early to secure good spots at popular lakes and rivers.
2. Bring the Right Gear
While you don’t need a license, you still need equipment. Many states offer loaner rod programs at state parks.
3. Know the Rules
Free license doesn’t mean free-for-all. All harvest limits, size restrictions, and gear regulations still apply.
4. Try Before You Buy
If you enjoy your free fishing day experience, visit our How to Get a Fishing License guide to learn about purchasing your own license.
5. Check State Park Events
Many state parks host free fishing clinics and events on these days, providing free equipment and instruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need to register for free fishing days? In most states, no registration is needed. Just show up and fish. A few states require free online registration.
Can non-residents participate in free fishing days? Yes! Free fishing days apply to everyone in most states, regardless of residency.
Do trout stamps and other endorsements apply on free fishing days? This varies by state. Some waive all endorsement requirements; others only waive the base license. Check your specific state’s rules.
For detailed state-by-state information, visit our state pages.