Hoosiers can
Catch fish at no cost on June 7th and 8th.
During Indiana’s approaching Free Fishing Days.
Residents of Indiana across all age groups can venture out to a public waterbody during that weekend to fish without needing a permit.
license or trout/salmon stamp
.
Since 1995, when it was mandated by state law, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources has organized yearly free fishing days. These events feature one day in May and another in September, as mentioned by DNR’s Cindy Stites.
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Stites mentioned that the aim is to venture outdoors and attempt something novel.
She mentioned that it’s great exercise and beneficial for mental wellbeing. Additionally, she noted that it’s quite enjoyable when done with loved ones.
Tips for Beginners Starting Out Fishing in Indiana
For beginners who want to try fishing on Free Fishing Day, Stites mentioned that they shouldn’t feel scared. Simply purchase or rent a simple rod and reel setup complete with a hook and float, and pick up some worms as bait; this will suffice for your initial attempt at the sport.
“You don’t require an elaborate setup or equipment; simply grab some sunscreen and insect repellent and give it a shot,” suggested Stites.
Although fishing remains free during the weekend, according to Stites, make sure you adhere to the state’s fishing rules. Fishermen must still comply with the state’s catch limits, details of which can be accessed on the DNR’s webpage.
Where can one go fishing in Indiana?
The DNR’s website provides an interactive map that displays public access points and fishing locations for ponds, streams, rivers, and lakes throughout Indiana.
Every location on the map comes with details regarding the spot, such as the types of fish you might reel in, if there are any charges for access, and what facilities are close by.
Various cities outside of Department of Natural Resources areas are hosting their own events for this month’s Free Fishing Days.
Friends of Pogue’s Run is collaborating with Go Fishin’ with Clint on June 8.
free fishing festival featuring expert guidance
And additional poles and fishing lines for those taking part.
Various sites are hosting fishing derbies for children throughout Free Fishing Days. For details on these event locations, check out the DNR’s website.
Where can I purchase an Indiana fishing license?
Although the June Free Fishing Days attract many people in Indiana, Stites suggested that newcomers who like fishing for free might want to think about obtaining a license and keeping up with the activity.
Part of the state’s conservation financing originates from an excise tax on equipment for hunting, fishing, and sport shooting, as mentioned by Stites.
“We motivate individuals to venture outdoors as it contributes to conservation efforts and is enjoyable,” she stated.
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
; retailers, county clerks, and DNR sites across Indiana will offer them for purchase in person.
The IndyStar’s initiative for environmental journalism is supported generously by the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, a nonprofit organization.
Karl Schneider serves as an environmental reporter for IndyStar. You can contact him via email at karl.schneider@indystar.com. Follow his work on BlueSky.
@karlstartswithk.bsky.social
The article initially appeared in the Indianapolis Star.
Additional fishery-unrestricted days are heading Indiana residents’ way in June and September.
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