A special free fishing day is coming up this week.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has declared Saturday (Sept. 19) a free fishing day, meaning no fishing licenses are needed within the boundaries of state parks, natural areas and wildlife areas where fishing is allowed.
DNR fisheries biologist Frank Jakubicek says this is great for kids or adults who are just getting started with fishing. “You can have a lot of fun just by catching five- and six- and seven-inch bluegills, and occasionally you’ll catch a 14-inch bass, maybe you’ll catch a channel catfish,” he says. “Those would be all on the same bait. That could be just a little wax worm near shore.”
The free fishing applies to Illinois and out-of-state residents. The regular annual free fishing days are held in June.
