East Central Reporter

Each year, to celebrate Father’s Day and encourage people to spend time in nature, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources designates its Free Fishing Days. The annual four-day-long celebration allows in-state residents to fish without a fishing license, salmon stamp, or inland trout stamp. This year's event runs from Friday, June 14 through Monday, June 17.

Those eager to try their hand at fishing can look forward to various events held by forest preserves, parks, and fishing clubs across the state during the 2024 Illinois Free Fishing Days. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm in Bolingbrook offers free pole rentals and gifts for fathers. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Carterville provides free entry and scenic views. Additionally, Lakefront Park in Fox Lake hosts the Father’s Day Fishing Frenzy with competitions for the biggest and smallest fish.

Lake Paradise, located approximately four miles south of Mattoon in Coles County, is another notable location for fishing enthusiasts.

Participants are allowed to fish without a license during Free Fishing Days and can keep trophy fish if they meet requirements and the body of water permits it. However, all applicable fishing laws and rules must still be followed. For those uncertain about fishing regulations or locations, resources are available at ifishillinois.org.

Safety tips for anglers include being aware of surroundings while casting lines, wearing life jackets near water, only casting where permitted, handling fish carefully when removing hooks, and consuming only safe-to-eat fish.

Following Free Fishing Days, individuals aged 16 or older will need a fishing license starting June 18. Licenses cost $15 annually and support habitat protection programs. Lifetime licenses are also available for avid anglers. Licenses and stamps can be purchased online through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources at exploremoreil.com or at vendors throughout the state.

The 2024 Illinois Free Fishing Days offer an opportunity to discover a new hobby, learn about aquatic wildlife in Illinois, and create lasting memories with loved ones during this significant fishing weekend.