Saturday, June 14 is Idaho’s Free Fishing Day and all anglers, residents and nonresidents, are invited to celebrate the day by fishing without a license.
Free Fishing Day events planned in Salmon and Challis
idfg-mdemick
Youth fishing derbies run from 8:30 to noon on Sat. June 14
Fishing equipment will be available for use and experts will be on hand to help novice anglers learn the ins and outs of fishing at two area locations. Registration at these events runs from 8:30 to 11:45, and anglers must be present to collect prizes starting at noon.
Salmon - Kid’s Fishing Derby at Kid’s Creek Pond. Prizes for the biggest fish caught in four separate age categories will be awarded at noon. Several local businesses and individuals have generously donated prizes. Derby sponsors include Idaho Fish and Game and the Salmon-Challis National Forest. For more information, contact Brett Kelly at 208-756-2271.
Challis - Kids Fishing Derby at Blue Mountain Kid’s Pond. Prizes for the biggest fish caught in four separate age categories will be awarded at noon. Sponsors include several Challis-area merchants and Challis Community Trails Alliance. For more information, contact David at challismtb@gmail.com or visit www.cctrailalliance.wordpress.com
Both events are free and are designed for youth 16 years old and younger. Since fishing equipment is limited, children are encouraged to bring their own rod and reel if possible. Bait will be provided.
Fishing for stocked rainbow trout, particularly in community ponds, is a great way to introduce new anglers to the sport by using simple set-ups like worm/marshmallow combinations or commercial baits like Power Bait or Crave, either near the bottom or below a bobber. Fish and Game’s Learn to Fish webpage offers diagrams for basic bait rigs and more.
When fishing with kids, remember to keep it fun, short, and simple. For other tips, see 10 tips for taking kids fishing.
While a fishing license is not required on Idaho's Free Fishing Day, all other rules apply. Be sure to review the 2025-2027 Idaho Fishing Seasons and Rules booklet for the water where you plan to go fishing.
Anglers can find more detailed information on Idaho’s fishing destinations including maps, facilities, fish species present, stocking records, and fishing rules by visiting the Fishing Planner on Fish and Game’s website.