BEDFORD — Hoosiers are being encouraged to grab their rods, reels, and life jackets next week to celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week, which runs from June 6–14. The annual celebration highlights the state’s vast network of natural resources and offers a prime opportunity for residents to visit Indiana’s scenic lakes, rivers, and streams.
Whether you are casting a line for the very first time, paddling a quiet river trail, or introducing a friend or family member to the great outdoors, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has rolled out several digital tools and events to make participating easy.
Fish for Free: June 6–7
The headline event of the week falls on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, designated as Indiana’s Free Fishing Days.
During this special weekend, all Indiana residents can fish any public water across the state without having to purchase a fishing license or a specialized trout/salmon stamp. State officials note that while the licensing requirement is temporarily waived to encourage participation, all other standard regulations—including size limits, bag limits, and specific species seasons—remain strictly enforced.
For those who aren’t sure where to start, the DNR offers an interactive Where to Fish map online to help anglers pinpoint public access sites, boat ramps, and fishing piers closest to them. Beginners can also access seasonal tips, local family fishing events, and instructional resources via the DNR’s dedicated Fishing Resources page.
Exploring Indiana’s Scenic Blue Paths
If paddling or boating is more your speed, National Fishing and Boating Week serves as an excellent backdrop to explore Indiana’s designated scenic water trails.
The state maintains an updated Where to Paddle, which serves as a comprehensive guide for kayakers, canoers, and paddleboarders. The tool allows users to locate their nearest public launch sites, calculate river distances, and check paddling conditions before heading out.
Keeping Safety at the Forefront
With an influx of water traffic expected on regional reservoirs and rivers over the week, conservation officers are reminding the public that safety must remain a top priority.
DNR Summer Water Safety Checklist:
- Life Jackets: Properly fitted and worn by all vessel occupants.
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen regularly and wear UV-blocking clothing.
- Hydration: Bring plenty of fresh water to prevent heat exhaustion.
- Education: Review official state boating and paddling safety guidelines.
No matter how you choose to spend the week, the DNR urges everyone to stay safe on the water by wearing a properly fitted life jacket, using adequate sun protection, and bringing plenty of fresh drinking water. Boaters and paddlers are also highly encouraged to review the state’s official education courses online before launching their watercraft.
