How to Fish for Free in Texas This Saturday

Texans will have the chance to fish without a license during the state's annual Free Fishing Day on Saturday, June 6.

Free Fishing Day is held each year on the first Saturday in June and it allows both Texas residents and visitors to fish on public waterways without purchasing a fishing license.

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According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the event is designed to encourage families and friends to spend time outdoors and introduce new anglers to the sport.

Plenty of Ways to Join the Fun on Texas Free Fishing Day

Whether you're an experienced fisherman or trying it for the first time, TPWD offers several resources to help anglers get started. The agency's online Fishing 101 guides has tips on safety, gear, casting, baiting, and cleaning fish.

Families can also visit the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens, Texas, which will offer free admission from 9 AM to 4 PM. Visitors can enjoy fishing activities, prize opportunities, hatchery tours, and educational programs throughout the day.

Find a Texas Fishing Spot Near You

Texas offers plenty of places to fish, from lakes and rivers to neighborhood ponds and coastal fishing piers. TPWD's Neighborhood Fishin' program stocks urban lakes across the state, making it easy for families to enjoy fishing close to home. in Texarkana you can fish at Spring Lake Park and at Lake Wright Patman.

Please remember, daily bag limits, slot limits, and size restrictions for the fish you keep are still strictly enforced! More Details on the TPWD Fishing Regulations page.

Support Conservation Through Fishing Licenses

While a license isn't required on Free Fishing Day, TPWD encourages anglers to purchase one if they enjoy the sport. Fishing license sales help fund fish stocking programs, habitat improvements, conservation efforts, and public access projects across the state.

Anglers planning to fish in federal waters should note that a fishing license is still required for the private recreational red snapper season, which opened May 22.

For more information about Free Fishing Day and fishing opportunities across Texas, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.