Need something to do with dad? Ohio’s free fishing days return over Father’s Day weekend, allowing residents to fish public waters without a license.
The event lets residents fish for free across Ohio’s lakes, rivers and streams. Here’s what to know about the state’s Free Fishing Days.
Free fishing weekend dates announced for Ohio
The official 2026 Free Fishing Days for Ohio are Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21.
The statewide program is held annually in June over Father’s Day weekend. During those two days, Ohio residents can fish public waters without a license, but all size limits, bag limits, and other regulations still apply, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Who needs a fishing license in Ohio?
In most cases, everyone needs a license to fish in Ohio.
Anyone 16 or older needs a fishing license to fish in Ohio’s public waters, per ODNR. This also applies to residents and non-residents, and includes Lake Erie and the Ohio River. However, exemptions apply to youth under 16, active-duty military, and of course, Free Fishing Days.
ODNR notes that a fishing license isn’t required in most privately owned ponds and lakes. Meaning that people fishing in privately owned ponds, lakes or reservoirs where fish do not migrate typically do not need a license.
Anglers unsure which license to buy can use a flow chart from the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
Key Ohio fishing rules and limits
The state has specific regulations that, even on Free Fishing Day, anglers should keep in mind:
Ohio fishing license prices for 2026
Fishing licenses range from $14 for a one-day resident pass to $599 for a lifetime license. Annual licenses are valid for 365 days from purchase.
Annual and multiyear fishing licenses are valid from the date of purchase until the expiration date printed on the license.
Here’s a breakdown, per ODNR:
Youth
Ohio Residents
Resident Seniors (66+)
Nonresidents
Extras
Any license, permit, or a duplicate license can be obtained through the Ohio Wildlife Licensing System.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Free fishing days return to Ohio, but there are still rules to follow
Reporting by Alex Perry, USA TODAY NETWORK / The Columbus Dispatch
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Alex Perry, USA TODAY NETWORK | USA TODAY Network
