OHIO — The Buckeye State's annual free fishing days are coming up, giving residents a chance to fish in any public waterway without a license. 

What You Need To Know

  • This year's free fishing days fall on Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, which also happens to be Father's Day

  • The weekend is a chance for those 16 and older to fish for free in waterways like Lake Erie and the Ohio River

  • It's already free for people under 16 to fish for free in the state of Ohio

This year's free fishing days fall on Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, which also happens to be Father's Day. 

"Free fishing days give Ohioans the opportunity to create special moments outdoors with their families," said Gov. Mike DeWine in a press release. "Ohio is the heart of adventure, and I encourage everyone to pick up a fishing rod and enjoy what our state parks have to offer."

It's already free for people under 16 to fish for free in the state of Ohio. 

“We encourage people to explore Ohio’s great outdoors with different recreational activities,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz in a press release. “These free fishing days allow anglers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy Ohio’s rivers, lakes and streams together.”

Here are some tips for those who may be trying it for the first time:

  • Keep the trip simple, such as picking a pond, lake or stream where it will be easier to catch some fish.
  • Use live bait to increase the odds of catching a fish, plus it makes it more fun for children
  • Bring snacks and a camera
  • Keep the trip fun and be patient

Outside of the free fishing weekend, licenses can be purchased through wildohio.gov or on the HuntFish OH application.

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