Event calendar

Free Fishing Days

Event information

Date: Friday, June 19, 2026

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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A person sitting in a yard chair with a fishing pole cast in a lake. A red cooler is next to the chair. Photo by Anthony Schalk

Event details

This ongoing program will run from Friday, June 19, to Sunday, June 21. 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 pick up a free promo item, and Sunday enjoy a tasty treat on the house. Let’s not forget about the fathers out there! On Father’s Day, visit the Tackle Box to help yourself to any of the above-mentioned items! Fishing poles are also available to rent for free courtesy of IDNR. 

Event requirements

No registration required.

State fishing rules and regulations apply.

Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails from the parking lot. Shoreline fishing takes place 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.