By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
Texans get a free day of fishing on public bodies of water this weekend.
To help kick off National Fishing and Boating Week, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is offering Free Fishing Day on Saturday, June 1.
The event, which is held annually on the first Saturday in June, allows anglers access to any public body of water in the state without a fishing license.
A fishing license is commonly required to fish on public waters, but Free Fishing Day allows everyone the opportunity to enjoy a day on the water.
TPWD and other organizations will be hosting free events around Texas to help celebrate. Anglers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Saltwater fishing will take place on public piers up and down the coast. Public access sites can be found here.
Sea Center Texas will be hosting a free youth fishing event starting at 8 a.m. in Lake Jackson. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore aquaria and exhibits of Texas marine life, as well as other attractions. Click here for more information on the event.
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens is hosting a kid’s catfish tournament. The event—which begins at 9 a.m. and has free admission, food and drinks—allows participants to fish as individuals or teams. Prizes will be awarded, and all tackle and bait will be provided. More information can be found here.
Other events on Free Fishing Day include the Kick Off Neighborhood Fishing’ in Northern Houston, the Abilene Outdoor Adventures 2019 and the 25th Annual Mark Howell Memorial Fishing Rodeo.
While June 1 is Free Fishing Day, TPWD wants to remind Texans that every Texas State Park has free fishing year-round.
A list of other Free Fishing Day events can be found here.
Learn more about Free Fishing Day and National Fishing and Boating Week here.