Free fishing in Virginia begins this weekend
RICHMOND, Va. (WSET) -- The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) is now offering all Virginians the chance to fish for free this weekend.
Virginians may fish without a license again this year on June 5, 6 and 7.
No fishing license of any kind will be required for recreational rod and reel fishing during free fishing days and facilities use permits will also not be required during these dates.
To increase angling opportunities, the DGIF has removed the restriction to fishing designated stocked trout waters.
This will open over 2,900 miles of trout streams, in addition to numerous ponds, small lakes and reservoirs. Virginia’s diversified trout habitat offers a wide range of trout fishing prospects.
All fishing regulations including size, season, catch limits, and gear restrictions, will remain in effect.
“Free fishing days are always an excellent opportunity to get out and try fishing for the first time, or to introduce new people to fishing,” said Ryan Brown, Executive Director of DGIF. “I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity and all that Virginia’s outdoors have to offer.”
The 2020 Freshwater Fishing and Boating Regulations can be found at the DGIF website. Printed regulations are also available at most major outdoor retailers throughout the state that sell hunting and fishing licenses.
In addition, the Marine Resources Commission’s website has extensive information on Virginia’s recreational fishing size, season and creel limits.
"Free fishing days are a great time to experience the abundance of Virginia's waters from the mountains to the coast," said Virginia Marine Resources Commissioner Steven G. Bowman. "We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable time this weekend, and tight lines!"
DGIF also has a fun way to recognize a trophy freshwater catch, called The Online Virginia Angler Recognition Program. Annually anglers go online to measure up over 6,000 trophy size fish annually. Anglers are also encouraged to enter the 2020 Kids ‘n Fishing Photo Contest. For contest rules visit here or call 804-367-0969.