OHIO — The Buckeye State’s annual free fishing day is upon us, giving residents the opportunity to fish any public waterway without a license.
This year’s free fishing days fall on Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, which also happens to be Father’s Day.
“Free fishing days give Ohioans an opportunity to create special moments outdoors with their families,” said Gov. Mike DeWine in a press release. “Ohio is the heart of adventure, and I encourage everyone to pick up a fishing rod and enjoy what our state parks have to offer.”
It’s now free for people under 16 to fish for free in the state of Ohio.
“We encourage people to explore Ohio’s great outdoors with a variety of recreational activities,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said in a press release. “These free fishing days allow anglers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy Ohio’s rivers, lakes and streams together.”
Here are some tips for those who might try it for the first time:
- Keep the trip simple, like choosing a lake, pond or stream where it’s easier to catch fish.
- Use live bait to increase the odds of catching fish, and it makes it more fun for kids
- Bring snacks and a camera
- Keep the journey fun and be patient
Outside of the free fishing weekend, licenses can be purchased through wildohio.gov or the HuntFish OH application.
