Free Fishing Day Saturday
If you're new to the area, and heard about the great fishing in our area, but haven't taken the opportunity to fish our waterways, here's a date to remember. Free Fishing Day is set for Saturday, June 10th, and if the reason you have not made your way to one of our fisheries is because you have yet to obtain a state fishing license, Free Fishing Day gives you the chance to fish, license free.
Free Fishing Day makes for a great family activity and offers an easy way to get outdoors and introduce your kids to fishing. Or if you have had new neighbors move in, this would be a great way to introduce them to the beauty of our region. It's a perfect day for beginning anglers to give fishing a try.
If you are taking someone fishing for the first time, you can print a Division of Wildlife Resources certificate to commemorate the occasion. You can print the certificate at home and fill in the details. You can download and print the certificate from the DWR website.
While you won't need a license to fish on Free Fishing Day, do keep in mind that all other fishing regulations will still be in effect. Make sure you are aware of the catch limits and other rules for the waterbody you are fishing. You can see all the rules in the 2023 Utah Fishing Guidebook. Remember to recreate responsibly by packing out what you pack in and keep your fishing area free of trash.
Community ponds are a great option for quick, close to home fishing spots. These ponds are especially useful for young or inexperienced anglers. There are some 57 community ponds located throughout Utah, and you can get more information on those ponds from the DWR website. Many of those community ponds will be stocked with rainbow trout a few days before Free Fishing Day. DWR will also stock many community ponds with channel catfish around the state.
In addition to the community ponds, Utah has hundreds of lakes and reservoirs, along with thousands of miles of streams that offer great fishing. If you are looking for a fishing experience that is more remote, or a larger body of water, visit the Fish Utah Map on the DWR website to find that fishing spot just right for you.
While licenses are not required on Free Fishing Day, they are required on any other day you may wish to fish in Utah. Licenses are good for 365 days from the date of purchase. You can obtain a license online at the DWR website, at any DWR office or at a DWR License Agent.
Make some plans to get out for Free Fishing Day. It's likely you'll get hooked!