The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is pleased to announce Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend will take place statewide June 1–2, 2024. During this weekend, residents and visitors can fish in any public lake, pond, reservoir, stream, or river in Massachusetts without a fishing license. This annual event is designed to encourage people of all ages to experience the joys of fishing. Participants must adhere to catch limits and all other fishing regulations.

There are countless rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds to explore across the state offering ample opportunities to fish. Use the Go Fish MA! fishing map to find places to fish close to home. Anglers can also explore trout stocked waters or handicapped-accessible fishing sites.

For those looking to learn how to fish for the first time or wishing to improve their fishing skills, MassWildlife offers free Learn-to-Fish Clinics throughout the state. Anglers of all ages and abilities can practice casting, baiting a hook, and reeling in a fish. Fishing gear is provided to borrow for free at these events. View the calendar of MassWildlife's upcoming fishing clinics here, including locations in Boston, Granby, Easton, Woburn, Turners Falls, Swansea, Avon, Reading, Berkley, Bolton, Stoughton, Sudbury, and Grafton.

Other than Free Fishing Weekend, you need a license to fish in fresh water if you are 15 or older. If you're 15–17 or 70 and older, your license is free. Funds from fishing license sales support MassWildlife’s fisheries research, fish stocking program, and angler education programs. Buy a fishing license here. For saltwater anglers, there is an upcoming Free Saltwater Fishing Day on Father’s Day, June 16, 2024.