Looking for a chance to enjoy the great outdoors and perhaps reel in your catch of the day without spending a dime? Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is making that possible. Revealed in a press release, this coming weekend, June 7-8, marks Colorado's Free Fishing Weekend, a time when both locals and visitors can fish without having to worry about a license or habitat stamp.
According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, anglers of any skill level, from novices to the experienced, are invited to fish for free across Colorado's diverse and picturesque waterways. The state boasts over 6,000 miles of streams and more than 1,300 lakes and reservoirs that are home to over 35 species of both warm and cold-water fish. The opportunity extends to the newly introduced category, Colorado Quality Waters, a designation that signifies bodies of water with exceptional fishing based on thorough assessments by CPW biologists.
CPW is not just about casting lines but also about fostering a sense of community and educating those interested in the angling world. "Fishing is a great activity to share with family and friends, and the perfect chance to get outside and enjoy Colorado’s natural resources," CPW Angler Education Coordinator Andre Egli said, as per Colorado Parks and Wildlife. For those just getting their feet wet, there are a variety of beginner classes available, which even seasoned fishermen may find beneficial to pick up a new technique like fly fishing.
More than just an event, Free Fishing Weekend serves as a springboard into a vibrant fishing community, with CPW hosting a variety of events, classes, and tournaments throughout the year, details of which can be found on the CPW Event Calendar. The 2025 Colorado Fishing Brochure is packed with information on regulations, license fees, and can be your guide to everything you need to know about fishing in the state. Keeping anglers in the loop, CPW also offers subscriptions to their Fishing eNews and Fishing Report for monthly updates on stocking reports and fishery surveys.
