On June 14, Idahoans can enjoy a free fishing day without a fishing license anywhere in the state. 

While a fishing license isn’t required on this day, all other fishing regulations, such as bag limits and bait restrictions, still apply. Those rules can be found on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website or by using the Fish Planner app, which offers detailed regulations by body of water.

Fish and Game officials will be at Trail Creek Pond and Jim Moore Pond, which is located in the Upper Snake Region, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Officials will provide free bait, loaner rods and basic instruction at both ponds.

According to the Idaho Fish and Game website, Jim Moore Pond was recently stocked with 140 adult rainbow trout in April.

Trail Creek Pond will be stocked with 800 adult rainbow trout days before Free Fishing Day.

James Brower, Idaho Fish and Game’s regional communications manager, said he looks forward to participating in this event and offers advice for beginners.

“Always best to start out simple with minimal gear,” said Brower. 

Brower also encouraged first-time anglers not to get discouraged if they don’t catch a fish right away.

“You got to meet the fish where the fish are,” Brower said. 

BYU-Idaho student Caleb Morton is studying biomedical science and shares his personal fishing expertise in an honest attempt to get people excited about the sport. 

“The tug is the drug,” said Morton. 

For Morton, fishing is more than just a hobby, it is a way to reconnect with nature and remember what's most important. 

“There’s no other feeling like it,” Morton said. “Not to mention that you get to spend time with some of the most surreal creations of God — fish, mountains, and good friends.”

Morton holds a fishing license and encourages others to consider investing in something that has brought him great joy for many years. 

Fishing licenses can be purchased on the Idaho Fish and Game website. Prices vary based on the license duration and whether the buyer is a resident or nonresident.