Take a friend or family member fishing out on one of the designated “Free Fishing Days” across the northeast and do your part to open someone new to the exciting sport of fishing! Each state’s particulars are different as some encompass an entire weekend, others a single a day, some are simply freshwater and others include marine fisheries. Regardless, in all examples the state lifts its requirement to possess an official state fishing license.
"Free fishing days offer local residents and visitors a special incentive to get outdoors and try something new," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "I hope folks will take advantage of this opportunity to visit Rhode Island’s ponds and lakes next weekend and catch a beautiful golden rainbow trout or the brook, brown and rainbow trout raised in DEM’s hatcheries."
In addition to the free fishing days across the Northeast, most states also sponsor free fishing events as well as many great youth angler events. Check out your local Inland or Marine Fisheries Department website for specific details on such events.
The following links outline each state’s specific free dates and encompassed waters: