IDNR Invites All to Fish License-Free During Illinois’ Four-Day Event

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has set today through the 16th as Illinois free fishing days for 2025. During the four days, anglers can fish without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp in Illinois. Officials said the goal is for non-anglers to discover or rediscover fishing and to introduce children to the activity. Outside of the free fishing days, Illinois requires anyone over the age of 16 to have a fishing license to fish. Exclusions apply to active-duty military and people with disabilities.