INDIANA — Outdoor enthusiasts across Indiana are heading into the woods, onto waterways, and out to state properties today as Indiana marks a dual celebration of National Hunting & Fishing Day and National Public Lands Day.
Organized nationally to honor the conservation contributions of sportspeople and public land stewards, the day features a variety of free events, skill-building workshops, and license-free outdoor access coordinated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Division of Fish & Wildlife.
Final Free Fishing Day of 2026
Anglers throughout the state can cast a line without purchasing a fishing license or state trout/salmon stamps. Today marks the fourth and final Free Fishing Day of the year designated by the state.
While license requirements are waived for all Indiana residents on public waters today, all standard fishing regulations—including minimum size limits, daily bag caps, and seasonal gear restrictions—remain strictly in effect to ensure wildlife sustainability.
Hands-On Workshops and Community Cleanups
To encourage newcomers to explore traditional outdoor pursuits, state wildlife coordinators and local park agencies are hosting interactive instructional events throughout the day:
- Squirrel Hunting 101 at Atterbury FWA: Held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Atterbury Fish & Wildlife Area in Johnson County, this beginner-friendly workshop covers squirrel biology, gear selection, safety regulations, field dressing, and “field-to-fork” culinary basics.
- Introduction to Fly Fishing in Carmel: Taking place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., this novice workshop introduces basic casting techniques, knot tying, and aquatic entomology. Gear is provided free of charge to all registered participants.
- Public Land Stewardship: Volunteer cleanups and habitat restoration events are underway across various state-managed Fish & Wildlife Areas, reservoirs, and state forests, encouraging visitors to pick up litter and assist property managers.
Key Details: September Outdoor Events
| Event / Activity | Time / Location | Participation Details |
| Indiana Free Fishing Day | Statewide public waters (All Day) | No license or stamps required for Indiana residents; size/bag limits apply. |
| Squirrel Hunting Workshop | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Atterbury FWA) | Guided by DNR Hunting Coordinator; covers safety, gear, and harvest prep. |
| Intro to Fly Fishing | 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. (Carmel, Ind.) | Free beginner workshop; all gear provided on site. |
| National Public Lands Day | Various State FWAs & Parks | Volunteer trash pick-ups and property stewardship opportunities. |
Economic and Conservation Impact
National Hunting & Fishing Day was established by Congress in 1972 to recognize sportsmen and sportswomen for their pivotal role in funding state wildlife conservation.
In Indiana, revenue generated from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses—combined with excise taxes on sporting equipment under the federal Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson acts—serves as the primary funding source for state habitat management, public land acquisition, and endangered species recovery programs.
For more information on ongoing volunteer projects, educational programs, or public property access maps across the state, visit the Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife portal at on.IN.gov/dnr.
