Minnesota Free Fishing Days (2026) — Ice Fishing & Summer Dates

MN 2026 free fishing days: January ice fishing and June Take a Kid Fishing. Dates, rules, and best lake spots.

Minnesota celebrates fishing with two free fishing days plus special events, giving everyone a chance to experience the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

2026 MN Free Fishing Days

DateDayType
January 18, 2026SundayWinter Free Fishing Day (ice fishing)
June 13, 2026SaturdayTake a Kid Fishing Weekend (opener)
2026 MN Free Fishing Days ❄️ Jan 18 — Ice Fishing Day 👨‍👧 Jun 13 — Take a Kid Fishing

What's Covered

  • No license or stamps required — all ages, all species
  • All bag limits, size limits, and season rules still apply
  • All public waters open — 11,842 lakes + thousands of miles of streams
  • Both residents and visitors welcome

Best MN Free Fishing Day Spots

  • Mille Lacs Lake: World-class walleye — perfect for a free day outing
  • Lake Minnetonka (Minneapolis): Urban lake with bass, crappie, sunfish
  • Boundary Waters / BWCA: Remote wilderness fishing (permits still required for BWCA entry)
  • Lake of the Woods: "Walleye Capital of the World" — incredible winter and summer fishing

Explore all MN fishing license options →