It doesn’t matter whether you’re visiting from outside the state or you live in Kentucky.  It’s a great time to grab a fishing pole and enjoy spending time with family and friends at the state’s beautiful lakes, streams and rivers. The free fishing weekend is open to all. You won’t need a fishing license or a trout permit. Just make sure you still follow the size and number limits on what you catch.  ​

Need help getting started? Go to the Learn to Fish page for instructional videos covering gear, tying knots and preparing a fish for the table.

Don’t know where to fish? Click Fishin​g to access the fishing forecast for tips and places to try, including the Fishing in Neighborhoods (FIN​​s) lakes. FINs offer dozens of easily accessible, especially stocked lakes near population centers throughout the state. Many locations host special fishing events during free fishing days.

Take along a fishing pole if you’re exploring a river or stream in a kayak that weekend. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife’s Blue Water Trails series profiles a number of adventures throughout the state and gives you advice about how to catch fish along the way.

​Remember your catch or the catch of a loved one or friend with a personalized certificate, available on the department’s website.

Whether in a kayak or a powerboat, always remember to have life jackets for everyone on board. Learn more about boating safety and locate ramps into Kentucky’s waterways in the boating section.

If you haven’t joined the fun yet, take a test drive with hook and line during Kentucky’s free fishing weekend.​