INDIANA — Hoosiers are encouraged to head outdoors on Saturday, Sept. 26, to celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day, a statewide celebration highlighting Indiana’s rich outdoor traditions and conservation efforts.
This year’s celebration coincides with two major outdoor milestones: the official opening of Indiana’s youth deer hunting season and the state’s final Free Fishing Day of 2026. On Free Fishing Days, Indiana residents can fish state public waters without needing a fishing license or trout/salmon stamp, making it an ideal opportunity to introduce new anglers to the sport.
State wildlife officials emphasize that participation in hunting and fishing directly supports natural resource management across the state. Revenue generated from every license purchase funds critical conservation initiatives, including wildlife management, habitat restoration projects, public access site development, and outdoor recreation programs statewide.
For those looking to get involved, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers resources, public land maps, and regulation guides on its official hunting and fishing webpages. Outdoor enthusiasts can also view the DNR calendar of events to find upcoming workshops, natural property events, and introductory sports clinics scheduled near them.
