Virginia Free Fishing Days (2026) — June 5-7

VA 2026 free fishing days are the first weekend in June! Fish both freshwater and tidal saltwater for completely free with no license required.

Virginia offers a fantastic Free Fishing Weekend every summer!

2026 VA Free Fishing Days

DateTypeNotes
June 5-7, 2026Freshwater & SaltwaterFirst full weekend in June!

Important Rules

During the Free Fishing Days, no fishing license is required to fish in any public waters (inland or marine). Furthermore, the saltwater boat sport fishing license is also waived. However, all size, catch, and possession limits strictly apply.

Best Spots for Free Weekend

WaterRegionSpeciesWhy Go
Smith Mountain LakeRoanoke AreaStriped Bass, BassMassive, deep lake with incredible striper fishing
Shenandoah RiverWestern VASmallmouth BassOne of the best floating smallmouth rivers in America
Virginia Beach PierCoastalCroaker, Spot, DrumClassic saltwater pier fishing
Buggs Island (Kerr)Southern VACrappie, CatfishMassive reservoir on the NC border

See all VA fishing spots.