In Iowa, residents and nonresidents 16 years and older must have a valid fishing license while fishing. However, every year the Iowa DNR hosts Free Fishing Weekend when the license requirement is waived. In 2022, Free Fishing Weekend is June 3, 4, and 5. For this special weekend, fishing licenses are not required in order to fish in Iowa, however all other regulations remain in place, so grab a pole and your family head out to give fishing a try. To find a great fishing spot for your family, try this interactive map to help you choose.
If your kids “catch” the fishing bug, it is just $22 to purchase an annual fishing license for ages 16 and older so the fun can continue all summer long! Visit https://gooutdoorsiowa.com/ to purchase online.
First time taking the kids out fishing? We have seven tips to get your kids hooked on fishing!
When your young fishing buddy makes their first catch (any species, size of fish, or age of angler), capture that memory with the First Fish Award! Just visit the Master Angler and First Fish page of the Iowa DNR website and fill out the form to request the free certificate. You can choose to print it yourself or request a printed certificate.
We hope you have loads of fun and lots of luck!
