Latest news with #FreeFishingDays

Indianapolis Star
29-05-2025
- General
- Indianapolis Star
More license-free fishing days coming for Hoosiers in June and September
Hoosiers can fish for free June 7 and 8 during Indiana's upcoming Free Fishing Days. Indiana residents of all ages can head out to a public waterway that weekend to fish without a license or trout/salmon stamp. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has hosted annual free fishing events, which also include a single day in May and another in September, since 1995 when it became state law, said DNR's Cindy Stites. The idea is to get outside and try something new, Stites said. 'It's good exercise and good for your mental health," she said. "It's really a lot of fun to go out with family and friends, as well." For new anglers casting lines out during Free Fishing Day, Stites said there is nothing to be intimidated about. Go out and buy or borrow an easy-to-use rod and reel combo with a hook and bobber, then grab some worms. That's all you need to get started. 'You don't need a real expensive set up and gear, just get some sunscreen and bug spray and give it a try,' Stites said. While fishing is free for the weekend, Stites said to remember to stick to the state's fishing regulations. Anglers will still have to obey the state's fishing limits, which can be found on DNR's website. DNR's website offers an interactive map showing users public access and fishing sites for ponds, streams, rivers and lakes across Indiana. Each point on the map has information about the site, including what kind of fish can be caught, whether there are entry fees and what amenities are nearby. Outside of DNR properties, some cities are holding their own events for June's Free Fishing Days. Friends of Pogue's Run is working with Go Fishin' with Clint on June 8 for free fishing celebration with expert instruction and extra rods and reels for participants. Multiple locations are holding Fishing Derbies for kids during Free Fishing Days. DNR's website has more information on where those events are located. While the June Free Fishing Days are popular in Indiana, Stites said first-timers who enjoy going out when it's free should consider picking up a license and continuing the hobby. Some of the state's conservation funding comes from an excise tax on hunting, fishing and sports shooting equipment, Stites said. 'We encourage people to go out because it's giving back to conservation and it's also fun,' she said. Hoosiers can buy a fishing license online, by mail or in person. DNR's website has a hub to purchase hunting, fishing and trapping licenses; and retailers, county clerks and DNR properties throughout Indiana will have them for sale in person. IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
More license-free fishing days coming for Hoosiers in June and September
Hoosiers can fish for free June 7 and 8 during Indiana's upcoming Free Fishing Days. Indiana residents of all ages can head out to a public waterway that weekend to fish without a license or trout/salmon stamp. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has hosted annual free fishing events, which also include a single day in May and another in September, since 1995 when it became state law, said DNR's Cindy Stites. The idea is to get outside and try something new, Stites said. 'It's good exercise and good for your mental health," she said. "It's really a lot of fun to go out with family and friends, as well." For new anglers casting lines out during Free Fishing Day, Stites said there is nothing to be intimidated about. Go out and buy or borrow an easy-to-use rod and reel combo with a hook and bobber, then grab some worms. That's all you need to get started. 'You don't need a real expensive set up and gear, just get some sunscreen and bug spray and give it a try,' Stites said. While fishing is free for the weekend, Stites said to remember to stick to the state's fishing regulations. Anglers will still have to obey the state's fishing limits, which can be found on DNR's website. DNR's website offers an interactive map showing users public access and fishing sites for ponds, streams, rivers and lakes across Indiana. Each point on the map has information about the site, including what kind of fish can be caught, whether there are entry fees and what amenities are nearby. Outside of DNR properties, some cities are holding their own events for June's Free Fishing Days. Friends of Pogue's Run is working with Go Fishin' with Clint on June 8 for free fishing celebration with expert instruction and extra rods and reels for participants. Multiple locations are holding Fishing Derbies for kids during Free Fishing Days. DNR's website has more information on where those events are located. While the June Free Fishing Days are popular in Indiana, Stites said first-timers who enjoy going out when it's free should consider picking up a license and continuing the hobby. Some of the state's conservation funding comes from an excise tax on hunting, fishing and sports shooting equipment, Stites said. 'We encourage people to go out because it's giving back to conservation and it's also fun,' she said. Hoosiers can buy a fishing license online, by mail or in person. DNR's website has a hub to purchase hunting, fishing and trapping licenses; and retailers, county clerks and DNR properties throughout Indiana will have them for sale in person. IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Karl Schneider is an IndyStar environment reporter. You can reach him at Follow him on BlueSky @ This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana offering more license-free fishing days in June and September

Indianapolis Star
29-05-2025
- General
- Indianapolis Star
More license-free fishing days coming for Hoosiers in June and September
Hoosiers can fish for free June 7 and 8 during Indiana's upcoming Free Fishing Days. Indiana residents of all ages can head out to a public waterway that weekend to fish without a license or trout/salmon stamp. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has hosted annual free fishing events, which also include a single day in May and another in September, since 1995 when it became state law, said DNR's Cindy Stites. The idea is to get outside and try something new, Stites said. 'It's good exercise and good for your mental health," she said. "It's really a lot of fun to go out with family and friends, as well." For new anglers casting lines out during Free Fishing Day, Stites said there is nothing to be intimidated about. Go out and buy or borrow an easy-to-use rod and reel combo with a hook and bobber, then grab some worms. That's all you need to get started. 'You don't need a real expensive set up and gear, just get some sunscreen and bug spray and give it a try,' Stites said. While fishing is free for the weekend, Stites said to remember to stick to the state's fishing regulations. Anglers will still have to obey the state's fishing limits, which can be found on DNR's website. DNR's website offers an interactive map showing users public access and fishing sites for ponds, streams, rivers and lakes across Indiana. Each point on the map has information about the site, including what kind of fish can be caught, whether there are entry fees and what amenities are nearby. Outside of DNR properties, some cities are holding their own events for June's Free Fishing Days. Friends of Pogue's Run is working with Go Fishin' with Clint on June 8 for free fishing celebration with expert instruction and extra rods and reels for participants. Multiple locations are holding Fishing Derbies for kids during Free Fishing Days. DNR's website has more information on where those events are located. While the June Free Fishing Days are popular in Indiana, Stites said first-timers who enjoy going out when it's free should consider picking up a license and continuing the hobby. Some of the state's conservation funding comes from an excise tax on hunting, fishing and sports shooting equipment, Stites said. 'We encourage people to go out because it's giving back to conservation and it's also fun,' she said. Hoosiers can buy a fishing license online, by mail or in person. DNR's website has a hub to purchase hunting, fishing and trapping licenses; and retailers, county clerks and DNR properties throughout Indiana will have them for sale in person. IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Yahoo
West Virginia one of the most sought-after states to move to
CLARKSBURG, (WBOY) — Search trends show the most sought-after states to move to so far in 2025, and West Virginia has been a popular choice. According to a report from U.S. News & World Report, West Virginia is ranked 7th in states with the highest migration interest based on total internet searches in the first part of 2025. The report states that many enjoy West Virginia because it, along with other mountain states, has 'a more relaxed lifestyle and lower cost of living.' It also notes that West Virginia offers everything from hiking to white-water rafting for things to do. Fish for free without a license at West Virginia's Free Fishing Days West Virginia has previously been ranked as the most affordable state for many things, and the cheapest state to retire in. Another study found that there was more interest in moving into West Virginia than moving out. Other sought-after states include South Carolina, Tennessee, Delaware, North Carolina, Maine, Idaho, Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi for other reasons such as coastal views, mild weather, history and more. You can view the whole study here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Florida's free fishing days return this weekend for residents and visitors
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) – Florida's Free Fishing Days are back this weekend. This Saturday and Sunday, people will be able to go freshwater fishing without buying a applies to both state residents and out-of-state visitors. Buy surplus government vehicles and equipment at Panama City auction Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials say these free fishing weekends are a great way to bring people outdoors and create memories with family and friends. Remember, all bag limits and size restrictions are still in effect during all free fishing events. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.