Description

On Free Fishing Weekend June 10-11, 2023, fishing licenses are not required to fish for certain species in Washington. Free Fishing Weekend in Washington is always the first weekend after the first Monday in June.

Beginning in 2023 there are some new restrictions that limit the species that can be caught without a fishing license on Free Fishing Weekend: a valid fishing license is required for anyone 15 or older to harvest any fish species requiring a catch record card (including salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut) or shellfish.

Some fishing opportunities that are available without a license this weekend include:

• Rainbow trout and bass in lowland lakes across the state;
• Lingcod, cabezon, and rockfish on the Washington coast; and
• Shad in the Columbia River.

New to fishing? Check out these tips for fishing with kids. 

• Also NOT required on Free Fishing Weekend:

• Vehicle Access Pass (which comes with most fishing licenses)
• A Discover Pass will not be required on WDFW, DNR, or Washington State Park lands in recognition of National Get Outdoors Day on June 10 and Free Fishing Day on June 11.
• Two-Pole Endorsement

While no licenses are required for some species,  it's still important to check the regulations for other rules such as size limits, bag limits, and area closures that will still be in effect.

The Washington State Fishing Regulation Pamphlet provides all rules and restrictions.