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News June 3–4, 2023 is Free Fishing Weekend!

No license is needed to fish in fresh water the first weekend in June!
5/11/2023
  • Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Media Contact for June 3–4, 2023 is Free Fishing Weekend!

Media Contact, MassWildlife

family fishing

Mark your calendars for this year’s Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend on June 3 and 4! No license is required to fish any public lake, pond, reservoir, stream, or river in Massachusetts from 12 a.m. Saturday, June 3 until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, June 4.  

  • Other than Free Fishing Weekend, you need a license to fish in fresh water if you are 15 or older. If you're 15–17 or 70 and older, your license is free. Funds from fishing license sales support MassWildlife’s fisheries research, fish stocking programs, and angler education programs. Buy your fishing license here. 
  • All other regulations, including catch limits, apply during Free Fishing Weekend. Before heading out on the water, make sure you know the rules. Review fishing regulations
  • For saltwater anglers, Free Saltwater Fishing Weekend is June 17–18.

    Where to fish

    Use the Go Fish MA! fishing map to find places to fish near you! You can also explore trout stocked waters or handicapped accessible fishing sites

    Sharpen your skills

    It's easy to learn to fish. All you need to get started is some simple gear and a little practice! Read fishing tips and watch tutorial videos.

    Media Contact for June 3–4, 2023 is Free Fishing Weekend!

    Division of Fisheries and Wildlife 

    MassWildlife is responsible for the conservation of freshwater fish and wildlife in the Commonwealth, including endangered plants and animals. MassWildlife restores, protects, and manages land for wildlife to thrive and for people to enjoy.

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