Tennesseans can fish for free June 6 as the state observes the annual Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day with kids 15 and under able to fish without a license all week.

Free Fishing Day is named in honor of Bobby Wilson who retired in 2022 after more than 40 years of service to the TWRA. He served in the Fisheries Division for 35 years, before being named TWRA Deputy Director in 2015 and Executive Director in 2020. The annual free fishing day was named in his honor upon his retirement.

The event means Tennesseans and visitors alike can fish without a license in Tennessee waterways. The privilege extends all week for kids 15 and under with the point of the event aimed at giving participants a better appreciation of the state’s waterways and the sport of angling. Those who wish to continue angling and/or hunting can get a fishing license for $33 which is good for an entire year. There are additional fees for specialty hunting and fishing.

While fishermen can fish at any public waterway during free fishing day, some areas have special events planned for June 6. An entire list can be found at the Tennessee State Parks website or going to the Go Outdoors Tennessee Event Calendar. Events set nearby include:

The 24th Annual Kid’s Fishing Day for Lincoln County will be on June 6, 2026 at the Stone Bridge Park Pond in Fayetteville. Registration begins at 7a.m., and fishing begins at 8 a.m. and will end at noon. This event if for kids up to 12 years old who can hold a pole and reel in a fish themselves. There will be prizes, tagged fish for more prizes, and food and drinks provided. Some poles and tackle will be available for use if you do not have them.

Ed Carson Memorial Free Fishing Day will be held at Bedford Lake located at: 125 Bedford Lake Road, Normandy, TN 37360 from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prizes will be given out to registered children. Lunch will be provided. Day of registration at the Shelbyville Parks and Rec. Tent. Age Limit: 4 – 15 years old.

Free Fishing Day with Myers Hill Church and South Cumberland State Park Located at: 587 Lakes Road, Tracy City, TN 37387. Time: 7 a.m. – noon. No registration is required. Age Limit: 0 – 17 years old