The public can fish without a fishing license on Aug. 31. Image by fikret kabay from Pixabay

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – During the second of California’s two free fishing days in 2024, which will be on Aug. 31, the public can fish throughout the Golden State without a fishing license.

For those new to fishing, this is an opportunity to explore a rewarding and exciting new hobby. For licensed anglers, this is an opportunity to introduce or reintroduce someone else to the joys of becoming an angler. Free fishing days are also a perfect time for former anglers to return and reconnect to the activity.

Those interested in fishing California’s lakes, streams and rivers can find information about inland fishing locations and species on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website at wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Inland. Information is also available about year-round free fishing opportunities found on specific piers, jetties and breakwaters along the coast. Other helpful tools for anglers include the fish planting schedule, fishing guide and Recruit, Retain, Reactivate (R3) Program resources at wildlife.ca.gov/r3#54518718-fishing.

A variety of offerings is also available from California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Fishing in the City program, which focuses on teaching Californians how and where to fish in metropolitan areas. General information about the Fishing in the City program can be found on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website at wildlife.ca.gov/fishing-in-the-city.

Children 15 and younger can fish for free every day of the year in California but Free Fishing Days offer a time when families and friends can experience the hobby together for free.

All fishing regulations, such as bag and size limits, gear restrictions, report card requirements, fishing hours and stream closures remain in effect. California Department of Fish and Wildlife encourages potential anglers to check rules and regulations for each water they plan to fish at wildlife.ca.gov/regulations.

For new anglers who get “hooked” on fishing, an annual sport fishing license can be bought at ca.wildlifelicense.com/internetsales. Revenue generated from license sales helps conserve fish populations and habitats while supporting California's longstanding angling opportunities for future generations. Annual sport fishing licenses are now valid for a full 365 days from purchase. More information on licenses, validations and fees can be found online at wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Fishing.