Sept. 3 is Free Fishing Day in California

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is offering Free Fishing Day on Saturday, Sept. 3, for any waterway in the state that normally requires a fishing license.

“One of the greatest things about Free Fishing Day is that it provides an opportunity to open a door for someone who’s never tried it,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “If you’re already an experienced angler, bring a friend or family member out with you and show them the excitement of landing a fish. It’s a great way to make memories.”

A basic annual resident sport fishing license in California costs $47.01, but CDFW offers two Free Fishing Days each year, usually around the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekend, when it’s legal to fish without a license.

All fishing regulations, such as bag and size limits, gear restrictions, report card requirements, fishing hours and stream closures remain in effect on Free Fishing Day. Every angler must also have an appropriate report card if they are fishing for abalone, steelhead or sturgeon anywhere in the state. Fishing rules and regulations are at www.wildlife.ca.gov/regulations.