License-free public fishing days
Three States Offer Free Fishing Days Without Licenses for National Hunting Day
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Key Points
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New York’s Sept. 26 waiver covers the state’s $25 freshwater fishing license fee for both residents and nonresidents; it is the fifth of six free-fishing days scheduled for 2026, with the final one set for Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
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Indiana’s license-free day also waives the trout and salmon stamp requirement, and the state provides fishing guides, a “Where to Fish” map and other planning resources through fishing.IN.gov.
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New Mexico’s wildlife department director, Mike Sloane, said the event helps people connect with the state’s waters and wildlife and develop an appreciation for conservation; the Aztec derby will additionally feature a pellet-shooting trailer, an archery-program trailer and off-highway-vehicle education.
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New York has more than 7,500 lakes and ponds and about 70,000 miles of rivers and streams available for fishing, giving participants numerous public-water options beyond the organized clinics and gear-loan programs.
Anglers in New York, Indiana, and New Mexico can fish public waters without a license on September 26, coinciding with National Hunting and Fishing Day. New Mexico extends the event through September 27 and plans a free kids' fishing derby, while New York offers gear loans and fishing lessons for beginners.
Standard fishing rules stay in place during these free days. Anglers must still follow season dates, bag limits, and size restrictions. Outside these designated days, most anglers over 16 in New York need a $25 freshwater license.
Three States Open Waters Without License Fees
New York's September 26 free-fishing day waives the $25 freshwater license for residents and nonresidents alike. This marks the fifth of six license-free days scheduled for 2026, with the final event set for Veterans Day, November 11. Indiana also lifts its license requirement on September 26, additionally waiving the trout and salmon stamp fee.
New Mexico extends its free-fishing window through September 27, giving anglers two full days to fish without a license. The state's wildlife department director, Mike Sloane, said the event helps people connect with the state's waters and develop appreciation for conservation.
New Mexico Hosts Children's Fishing Derby and Skills Events
New Mexico will host a free fishing derby for children age 12 and younger in Aztec during the free-fishing weekend. The event features hands-on stations including a pellet-shooting trailer, an archery-program trailer, and off-highway-vehicle education to introduce young anglers to outdoor skills.
New York Offers Gear Loans and Instructional Clinics
New York supports free-fishing day participants with gear-loan programs and instructional clinics for beginners. The state's Department of Environmental Conservation coordinates these programs across its vast network of public waters.
New York anglers have extensive public-water options during the free-fishing day. The state maintains over 7,500 lakes and ponds plus approximately 70,000 miles of rivers and streams available for fishing.
Indiana Provides Planning Resources and Fishing Guides
Indiana supports free-fishing day participants through fishing.IN.gov, offering fishing guides, a 'Where to Fish' map, and other planning resources. The state's online portal helps anglers find the best locations and prepare for their September 26 outing.
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