West Virginia’s Free Fishing Days Return June 7-8, 2025!
As part of a nationwide effort to make fishing more accessible to the public, West Virginia’s Free Fishing Days provide a unique opportunity for residents and nonresidents to fish for free for two days without having to buy a fishing license.
This opportunity, which only comes once a year, is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy all the beauty and goodness of casting a line in Almost Heaven. Don’t miss out! Plan a trip and see why West Virginia is the best place in the world for families to enjoy a fishing adventure.
Traveling from out of state? Find a lake or stream just for you on our online fishing map.
West Virginia Free Fishing Days Derbies
Looking for a place to go fishing with your family? Show your kids how much fun fishing is by bringing them to one of our free fishing derbies! Kids should bring their own fishing gear and must be registered by an adult in order to participate and win prizes.
Little Beaver State Park Free Fishing Days Derby
- When: June 7, 2025 – 9 a.m. to Noon
- Registration: 9-10:30 a.m.
- Cost: Free
Bowden Fish Hatchery Free Fishing Days Derby
- When: June 7, 2025 – 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Registration: Starts at 7:30 a.m.
- Cost: Free
- Schedule:
- 8-9 a.m. – Preschool and Kindergarten
- 9-10 a.m. – First and Second Grade
- 10:30-11:30 a.m. – Third–Fifth Grade
- 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Sixth–Eighth Grade
Celebrate Your Child’s First Catch
Catching their first fish is an experience children will cherish all their lives. To commemorate the event, print out a full-color First Fish Certificate. You can fill out the PDF online and print it at home at your convenience. Enjoy this time together. You’ll be making memories that last a lifetime.
Keep Casting Your Line – Buy a West Virginia Fishing License!
If you enjoy your Free Fishing Days experience and want to continue fishing after this weekend, purchase your fishing license and plan your next adventure in Almost Heaven!