DWR Press Release
If you want to give fishing a try but you don’t have a fishing license make plans to grab a fishing pole and head to your nearest fishing water on June 6.
June 6 is free fishing day in Utah. You don’t need a fishing license to fish in the state that day.
If you have a license, June 6 will still be a great day to mark on your calendar. It’s the perfect day to introduce family members and friends who don’t have a license to fishing.
“Make plans now to get out with your family and enjoy a free day of fishing,” said Drew Cushing, warm water sport fisheries coordinator for the Division of Wildlife Resources.
Cushing said early June is one of the best times of the year to fish in Utah. Fishing for warm water fish, including bluegill, catfish, white bass and smallmouth and largemouth bass, is picking up. Also, trout and other cold water fish are still active and available to catch.
Some of the best places to fish
Before free fishing day, the DWR will place extra fish in waters across Utah. Most of the fish will be placed in lakes and reservoirs, making these good places to try on June 6.
Utah’s community fishing ponds are another good place to try. Before June 6, catfish that average 18 inches in length will be stocked into the ponds. “Catch one of these cats and you’ll have a fun fight on your hands,” Cushing said.
Depending on where you live, a community pond might be only a few minutes away. You can learn more about Utah’s community fishing ponds on our website.
Cushing said the DWR will stock catfish in the ponds in June and August. Then, when the temperature cools in the fall, hatchery workers will start placing trout in the ponds.
Learn the rules
You don’t need a license to fish on June 6, but all of the other rules in the state’s fishing guidebook will still be in effect.
You can find the rules in the free 2015 Utah Fishing Guidebook. Copies are also available at DWR offices and from fishing license agents across Utah.
“If you have any questions, please call the nearest DWR office,” Cushing said. “We’d be happy to help you out.”
Free Fishing Day in East-Central Utah
Wellington: Knight-Ideal Community Fishing Pond
A free fishing day event will be held from 8–11 a.m. at the Knight-Ideal Community Fishing Pond, 850 E. 300 S. in Wellington. The event is free.
The DWR will stock the pond before the event. DWR staff will also provide rods, reels and bait, along with supervision and instruction. Anglers under the age of 14 will receive a free prize.
For more information, call Brent Stettler at the DWR office in Price at (435) 613-3707.