Fishing Is Free In MA This Weekend: MassWildlife

MASSACHUSETTS — This is no fish tale: fishing is free in Massachusetts this weekend.

The state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's annual event aims to promote fishing as an activity, and means anyone of any age can cast a line without a license in freshwater sources.

"During this weekend, residents and visitors can fish in any public lake, pond, reservoir, stream, or river in Massachusetts without a fishing license. This annual event is designed to encourage people of all ages to experience the joys of fishing. Participants must adhere to catch limits and all other fishing regulations," MassWildlife said in a news release.

Fishing is free for anyone over 70 and anyone under 17, although people in those age groups — expect people under age 15 — still need to obtain a license. Freshwater fishing licenses cost $15 for three days, and $10 for saltwater fishing.

After free fishing weekend, MassWildlife will host a series of free fishing clinics across the state in communities including Sudbury, Woburn, Boston, Reading, Grafton, Easton and Stoughton. Get details here. The state also has a guide to fishing locations across the state, including stocked ponds and accessible fishing areas.

MassWildlife will also host a free saltwater fishing day on Father's Day, June 16.