Event calendar

Free Fishing Days for Father's Day

Event information

Date: Friday, June 16, 2023

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Fee: Free!

Age: All ages.

Contact: 815-722-4121

Location: Hidden Lakes Trout Farm at Hidden Oaks Preserve


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Two men and a boy crouched around a tackle box while prepping fishing poles. Photo by Chad Merda

Event details

This ongoing program will run from Friday, June 16, to Sunday, June 18. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Take advantage of the free fishing weekend sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Now’s your chance to fish without a license. Hidden Lakes is offering added incentives to get you out: On Friday, grab a free container of nightcrawlers, Saturday anglers can pick up a free promo item and on Sunday enjoy a tasty treat – candy, chips or ice cream.

Let’s not forget about the fathers out there! Calling all dads to visit the Tackle Box on Sunday to help yourself to any of the above-mentioned items!

Fishing poles are available to rent for free courtesy of IDNR. State fishing rules and regulations apply.

Event requirements

No registration required.

Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails leaving from the parking lot. The shoreline fishing area is on natural surfaces over uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.