June 10-11, 2023

Beginning in 2023, 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 on free fishing weekend.

“Free Fishing Weekend” is June 10-11, 2023, when 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. Some fishing opportunities that are available without a license on free fishing 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.

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 on Free Fishing Weekend, in recognition of National Get Outdoors Day on June 10 and Free Fishing Day on June 11.
• Two-Pole Endorsement

Remember – all other rules still apply. While no licenses are required for some species on Free Fishing Weekend, 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.

Please see the Fishing Regulation Pamphlet for all rules and restrictions.

Recreate Responsibly 

Recreate Responsibly to keep your trips outdoors safe and fun. Learn more at recreateresponsibly.org. Looking for additional ways to enjoy Washington’s great outdoors this summer? Visit our Life Outdoors web page.