Free Fishing Days 2019: How to Take Full Advantage

By Debbie Hanson

May 15, 2019

Learn about free fishing days 2019, how you can take advantage of state free fishing days, tips to make the most of free fishing weekends with friends, family

During National Fishing and Boating Week, each state offers free fishing days 2019 that give you the opportunity to go fishing on public bodies of water without a license. This year, National Fishing and Boating Week will take place from June 1-9, 2019. If you're wondering how you can take full advantage of free fishing days, check out these ideas.

1. Introduce someone new to fishing

Do you know a friend or family member who has been curious about fishing and wants to give it a try? Free fishing days are the ideal time to "get them hooked" by inviting them on a fishing adventure.

2. Learn a new fishing or boating skill

Watch an instructional video or read tips on how to tie new knots, improve your casts, rig soft plastic baits, or back up a boat trailer. Fishing holidays present the perfect opportunity to absorb additional angling education.

3. Attend an event

Most states hold events such as fishing clinics and family fishing festivals during National Fishing and Boating Week. Check out the TakeMeFishing.org FB page or the state section to find an event in your area.

4. Find a new place to fish and boat

Use the interactive Places to Fish and Boat map to find the perfect spot for a new fishing or boating adventure.

5. Make plans to head out on the water early

Catch a beautiful sunrise and don't miss the morning bite.

6. Pack a picnic lunch

Pack a picnic lunch or have lunch on the water during free fishing days 2019. Make the very most of your fishing time by packing a picnic lunch to bring along with you, or make plans to stop at a waterfront restaurant. Soak in as much time on the water as you can.

7. Share your catches on social media

Follow @Take_Me_Fishing and use the #FirstCatch or #GetYourFishOn hashtags and inspire others to take part in free fishing weekends.

8. Get Your Fishing License

Keep the fishing magic alive by purchasing a license after taking part in free fishing days 2019. If you didn't have a fishing license prior to National Fishing and Boating week, buy a state fishing license online and keep those happy fishing vibes flowing all year long.

If you're not sure when your state is offering free fishing events, just check the TakeMeFishing.org online list or contact your state fish and wildlife agency (individual states may have restrictions and other regulations may apply). Enjoy National Fishing and Boating Week!

Debbie Hanson
Debbie Hanson
Debbie Hanson is an award-winning outdoor writer, women’s sport fishing advocate, IGFA world record holder, and freshwater guide living in Southwest Florida. Hanson’s written work has appeared in publications such as Florida Game & Fish Magazine, BoatUS Magazine, and USA Today Hunt & Fish. To learn more about her work, visit shefishes2.com or follow her on Instagram @shefishes2.