🎣 Attention all fishing enthusiasts! 🐟 Are you ready to cast your lines and reel in some big catches? We have exciting news for you! FREE Fishing Weekend is June 3rd & 4th! It’s the perfect opportunity to spend time in nature, bond with family and friends, and indulge in the beloved sport of fishing.
Remember, Free Fishing Weekend allows everyone to participate, regardless of age or fishing experience. It’s a fantastic opportunity to introduce newcomers to the joys of fishing and create lasting memories with loved ones. However, please note that while fishing licenses are not required during this weekend, all other fishing regulations, such as bag limits and size restrictions, still apply to ensure the sustainability of fish populations.
So gather your fishing gear, pack a picnic, and head out to one of these amazing fishing events or locations. Take advantage of this Free Fishing Weekend, embrace the serenity of nature, and let the thrill of the catch fill your heart.
“Every year, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources offers Free Fishing Days to all anglers regardless of whether they live in the state or are just visiting. Free fishing weekend in 2023 is June 3-4. During this weekend, permits and fishing licenses are not required. All other regulations, including those for size limits and the number of fish that you can keep, still apply.
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 Fishing to access the fishing forecast for tips and places to try, including the Fishing in Neighborhoods (FINs) 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.”
-Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources
To make the most of this special occasion, let’s explore some fantastic events & fishing locations that you can visit during this Free Fishing Weekend:
Events
23rd Annual Take A Kid Fishing Day- Madisonville
June 3rd from 11 AM – 2 PM
Location: Madisonville City Park Lake, 1950 Park Rd., Madisonville.
Pre-registration at the park starts at 10:30 a.m. (Central). The fishing tournament is for kids 15 and under from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tournament includes four age categories: 3-6, 7-9, 10-12, and 13-15. An adult must accompany each child. Bring your own pole and bait. Only one pole per child. Bait will be provided. The first 100 children will receive a gift bag. Prizes will be given for the Largest Fish overall, and in each age category. Lunch provided. Online pre-registration is available at the Kiwanis Club of Madisonville’s Facebook page or register at the event.
Take A Kid Fishing- Nortonville
June 3rd from 10 AM – 2 PM
Location: Nortonville Lake, Nortonville.
Sponsored by the City of Nortonville. For kids 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Pre-registration is available at Nortonville City Hall. Food, and prizes for registered participants. Bring your own pole, stringer, bait, and chair. For more information, call (270) 836-7111.
Click here for a list of Hopkins County Honey Holes for Fishing!
Tight lines and happy fishing, everyone! 🎣✨