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
| Date | Day | Type |
|---|---|---|
| January 18, 2026 | Sunday | Winter Free Fishing Day (ice fishing) |
| June 13, 2026 | Saturday | Take a Kid Fishing Weekend (opener) |
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