Free Fishing Weekend Happening Now

Iowa residents can cast a line without buying a fishing license this weekend as the Iowa Department of Natural Resources hosts its annual Free Fishing Weekend.

From June 5th through June 7th, Iowa residents may fish without a license at lakes, rivers, streams, and neighborhood ponds across the state. The DNR says the event is designed to introduce more people to the sport and encourage families and friends to spend time outdoors together.

Free Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity to teach a child how to fish, reconnect with the outdoors, or try the activity for the first time. Whether it’s one of Iowa’s hundreds of lakes, thousands of miles of rivers, or a local fishing pond, anglers will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the state’s natural resources.

While fishing licenses are not required during the three-day event, all other fishing regulations remain in effect, including daily catch limits, size restrictions, and species-specific rules.

The Iowa DNR encourages participants to bring a friend or family member and take advantage of the free weekend to discover one of Iowa’s most popular outdoor activities.

Additional fishing regulations and information are available through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.