INDIANA — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting residents to rediscover the state’s waterways this year with the return of Free Fishing Days.
Designed to encourage families to spend time outdoors and introduce newcomers to the sport, these four designated days allow Indiana residents to fish public waters without the need for a fishing license or a trout/salmon stamp.
Mark your calendars for these upcoming opportunities to fish for free:
- Sunday, May 10 (Mother’s Day)
- Saturday, June 6 * Sunday, June 7
- Saturday, September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
For those who already hold an annual license, these dates serve as the perfect time to introduce a friend or family member to the hobby without the upfront cost of a permit.
While the license requirement is waived, the DNR emphasizes that conservation remains a top priority. All other fishing regulations stay in effect to protect Indiana’s aquatic populations.
What you need to know:
- Size Limits: You must adhere to the minimum and maximum length requirements for keeping a catch.
- Bag Limits: Daily limits on the number of fish you can keep per species still apply.
- Seasons: Ensure the species you are targeting is currently in season.
Not sure where to go? Use the DNR’s interactive “Where to Fish” map at on.IN.gov/where2fish to find public access sites, boat ramps, and fishing piers near you.
Why Fishing Licenses Matter
While these four days offer a free entry point, the DNR reminds regular anglers that annual licenses are the backbone of Indiana’s conservation efforts. Revenue from license sales—which for the 2026–2027 season typically costs $23 for residents—directly funds:
- Fish Stocking: Millions of fish, including rainbow trout and walleye, are raised and released into public waters each year.
- Habitat Management: Improving water quality and protecting vital spawning grounds.
- Public Access: Maintaining the ramps and piers that make fishing accessible for everyone.
Current 2025–2026 annual licenses officially expired on March 31. New 2026–2027 licenses can be purchased online through the DNR Activity Hub, at most DNR property offices, or through local bait and tackle retailers.
