National Fishing and Boating Week, an annual celebration of the benefits of fishing and boating, take place the first week of June every year. Most states offer free fishing days during the entire week, where you can go fishing without needing a fishing license. The 2024 National Fishing and Boating Week happens from June 1-9.
Spend quality time with your family, invite a friend new to fishing to try it, and explore the benefits of being outdoors and by the water. There are many ways to be part of the celebration:
Find places to fish and boat near you using our Interactive Map.
Whether you’re an experienced angler, or casting your first line, there is always more to learn and to enjoy. Get hooked on the life-changing benefits of fishing and boating.
Check out the full list of free fishing days per each state and the District of Columbia. Free fishing days are the perfect opportunity for beginners to try fishing and for avid anglers to take someone new fishing. Share your experience across social media with @take_me_fishing #FindYourBestSelf and follow us on Tik Tok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
Access the Take Me Fishing interactive map and find out where to fish or boat throughout the U.S. or near you. You can also search for local public fishing spots, places to buy fishing gear, where to get a fishing license, find out the best times to fish, public boat ramps, and more.
Check out the new step-by-step guides and tips from pros or watch our instructional videos on how to cast, tie knots and make fishing rigs in our How to Fish section.
Share your favorite fishing and boating memory, and experiences during National Fishing and Boating Week, and spread the word about the joys and benefits of fishing and boating through your social media channels with the hashtag #NFBW2024.
Watch our YouTube videos to learn new knots and techniques, and get inspired for your next fishing and boating adventure.
You may not know it, but participation in National Fishing and Boating Week events helps fund efforts to conserve our natural waterways. When you buy a fishing license you are directly contributing to state conservation programs including fisheries management, habitat protection and fishing education. A portion of all fishing and boating as well as license and registration sales, fund the conservation and preservation of our nation's waterways through a program called the Sport Fish Restoration Program. This means that every time you purchase a fishing license, fishing tackle, boat supplies, and register a boat, you are helping improve the natural places you love.
Fishing and Boating are fun, stress-relieving activities that you can enjoy with your family and friends anytime. Here are just a few reasons why you should get out on the water and start enjoying these activities:
Getting a fishing license is easier than you think. Learn how you can purchase your fishing license online, types of fishing licenses, check state requirements, register your boat and more information.
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Free Fishing Days 2024
On Free Fishing Days anglers are allowed to fish on public waters without a license.
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FIND PLACES TO BOAT AND FISH
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