The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced that from June 13 to 16, residents can enjoy fishing without the need for a license. This initiative, known as Illinois free fishing days, allows individuals to fish without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp, or inland trout stamp. The program aims to encourage non-anglers to experience fishing and introduce children to the activity.
Groups and organizations seeking fishing equipment and educational materials can request these through an online form provided by IDNR. Supplies will be available while they last.
Outside of these designated free days, Illinois mandates that anyone over the age of 16 must possess a fishing license to fish legally. Exceptions are made for active-duty military personnel and individuals with disabilities. Fishing licenses are available for $15 at various vendors across Illinois or online. Additional information about fishing in Illinois is accessible at ifishillinois.org.
In 2025, IDNR celebrates its centennial year of conservation efforts and service within the state. Originally established on July 1, 1925, as the Illinois Department of Conservation, it unified oversight for fish and game management, forestry, public works, and lakes under one entity.
Currently, IDNR manages approximately 400 sites throughout Illinois including state parks and historic locations; wildlife management; fisheries; forestry; natural heritage; Lake Michigan water allocation; coastal management; conservation police operations; mines and minerals regulation; oil and gas supervision; licensing issuance; permits processing; grant distribution activities; the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta; and the Illinois State Museum.
For more details about IDNR’s programs and services, visit their website at https://dnr.illinois.gov.
