INDIANA — Whether you are a seasoned pro or have never held a rod, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting all residents to get out on the water this year without the usual paperwork.
The DNR has officially designated May 10, June 6–7, and Sept. 26 as the 2026 Free Fishing Days. On these four specific dates, Indiana residents can fish any of the state’s public waters without needing a fishing license or a trout/salmon stamp.
While the license requirement is waived, the DNR emphasizes that conservation remains a priority. All other fishing regulations stay in effect, including:
- Size Limits: Minimum and maximum lengths for keeping a catch.
- Bag Limits: The total number of fish you can keep per day.
- Seasons: Specific dates when certain species are off-limits.
“Free Fishing Days are a cherished tradition designed to introduce newcomers to the sport and encourage families to reconnect with the outdoors,” a DNR spokesperson noted. “It’s the perfect, low-cost opportunity to see if fishing is the right hobby for you.”
Finding Your “Honey Hole”
To help anglers find success, the DNR provides an interactive “Where to Fish” map. This tool highlights public access sites, identifies which species are stocked in specific lakes, and even provides information on boat ramps and fishing piers.
For those in the Bedford and Southern Indiana area, popular public spots often include:
- Spring Mill State Park: Offers a serene setting for beginners.
- Patoka Lake: A premier destination for bass and crappie.
- Monroe Lake: Indiana’s largest landlocked body of water, known for diverse fishing opportunities.
Why Licenses Matter
While these four days are free, the DNR encourages regular anglers to purchase an annual license, which for the 2026 season (running April 1 to March 31) typically costs $23 for residents.
License sales are the backbone of Indiana’s conservation efforts. The revenue directly funds:
- Fish Stocking: Raising and releasing millions of fish into public waters annually.
- Habitat Management: Improving water quality and protecting spawning grounds.
- Public Access: Building and maintaining the ramps and piers that make fishing possible.
Get Involved
For those who find they have a “knack” for the sport after a Free Fishing Day, licenses can be purchased instantly online, at most DNR property offices, or through local bait and tackle retailers.
For questions regarding specific regulations or to find a local “Learn to Fish” workshop, visit dnr.IN.gov or call the Division of Fish & Wildlife at 317-232-4200.
