Free Fishing in Des Moines, Iowa
Things are getting fishy in Des Moines, Iowa. ‘Tis the season for fishing weather. One of our family’s favorite summer activities to create new memories! Iowa is blessed with miles of rivers and plenty of options to fish. Did you know that you are required to purchase a valid fishing license even before any fishing trip in the state of Iowa? Even Iowa residents! It is true, but the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is allowing you to fish for free before you spend money on a fishing license. You can learn more on the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website.
This year’s Free Fishing Weekend in the Des Moines area is the weekend of June 6-8. Mark your calendars! During those consecutive days, you can fish for free.If you are not able to fish during the free weekend, scroll to the bottom and learn how you can get your fishing license through Go Outdoors Iowa.
We have gathered a list of free fishing events where your family can fish for free in Des Moines, Iowa, below. Save the date for outdoor fun!
MacRae Park Pond
Friday, June 6 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Join Des Moines Parks & Recreation for a Friday evening at MacRae Park for free fishing! They provide bait, tackle, and expert instructors. No license needed. Pre-registration is required.
Family Fishing Basics at Athene North Shore
Friday, June 6 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Learn about Iowa’s different kinds of fish, fishing safety, casting, and how to tie a hook. It is Free Fishing Weekend in Iowa, so no license is needed. Bait and poles will be provided. Feel free to bring a chair to sit in. Participants can fish from an accessible fishing dock or natural shoreline. Adaptive fishing equipment will be available for individuals with difficulties sustaining a grasp on a fishing pole. Learn more here.
2025 Pleasant Hill Fishing Derby
Saturday, June 7 from 8 too 11 a.m.
Join for the annual kids fishing derby at Copper Creek Lake Park, sponsored by Golf Cars of Iowa and the City of Pleasant Hill! Tons of prizes available and raffle drawings every hour! Registration begins at 8 AM, and the event is for ages 4-13.
- Limited bait will be provided
- Participants should bring a fishing rod, extra bait, and tackle
- Parents supervision required
- First 150 kids will receive a raffle ticket for a prize.
Kids Fish Day
Saturday, June 7 from 9 a.m. to Noon
Have some fishing fun with Warren County! Bring the family out to participate in the art of fishing. The fishing competition will take place at Lester Pond. There will be awards, door prizes, and a free fish-cleaning demonstration. Bring your own pole or borrow one of ours. Bait will be provided. You will also be able to try fish bites cooked by the Izaak Walton League. *Fish will be fried in peanut oil.* It’s FREE — join us. A fishing license is not required for participants at Kids’ Fish Day. Please register each child so they can plan for bait and materials! This program is put on by Friends of Warren County Conservation and the Warren County Izaak Walton League.
Annual Fishing Derby – Bondurant
Saturday, June 7 from 8 to 10 a.m.
For ages 3 – 15 years old , Iowa residents can try fishing without buying a license as part of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) free fishing weekend. All other regulations remain in place. Bring your fishing gear, bait, and tackle. A few buckets will be on site to hold the fish that are caught. Raffle drawing and donuts after the kiddos catch a few fish!
Purchase a Fishing License
The easiest way to get your fishing license for the season is by visiting DNR Go Outdoors Iowa, which is a part of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Resident licenses, season-long licenses, and 24-hour fishing licenses are available. After you have your fishing license, head to Fish Local, a DNR website, to find great spots to fish right in our neighborhood. Not only is fishing a great way to get some fresh air this summer, but the purchase of fishing licenses also helps to fund wildlife conservation efforts in Iowa.