Kentuckians and visitors alike will be able to fish without a license this weekend as the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources hosts its annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 6-7.
During the two-day event, residents and nonresidents can fish on Kentucky waters without purchasing a fishing license or permit. The annual promotion is designed to introduce new anglers to the sport and encourage families to spend time outdoors together.
While fishing licenses are waived for the weekend, all other state fishing regulations remain in effect, including size limits, creel limits, and other harvest rules.
Local events are planned in conjunction with the weekend.
The Daviess County Conservation District will host its annual “Take a Kid Fishing” event Saturday at Panther Creek Park. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at the Whispering Winds Shelter, with fishing starting at 9 a.m. Lunch and door prizes will be offered at 11 a.m.
The free event is open to children of all ages. Participants are asked to bring their own fishing poles and bait, though a limited amount of bait will be available. Each child will receive a free goody bag. Organizers noted that the event will be held at a different shelter than in previous years because the former shelter was removed.
Also on Saturday, the Owensboro Police Department will host “Police in the Park” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Waymond Morris Park. The event will feature fishing opportunities, grilled hot dogs, lemonade, and a chance for residents to meet local officers and learn more about the department.
For more events being hosted across the state this weekend, click here.
For those looking for a place to fish, the department maintains an online directory of public fishing waters across the state, including lakes, streams, rivers, and ponds. Information about fishing regulations and public access locations is available through the department’s website here.
