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 5-7. 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!
Senior Fishing Day
Friday, June 5 from 9 a.m. to Noon
Come join Polk County Senior Services for a fun day of fishing on Iowa’s Free Fishing Weekend. There will be prizes for the biggest, smallest, and most fish caught. Please bring your own pole if you have one. If not, Polk County Conservation will have a limited number available. Bait will be provided. Sack lunches will be provided to registered participants. Participants can fish from an accessible fishing dock or natural shoreline. Register at your normal senior meal site or call Sam at the Northwest Senior Center (515-279-2767). Learn more here.
Youth Fishing Derby
Friday, June 5 from 5 to 6 p.m.
The City of Bondurant’s Youth Fishing Derby is a family-friendly event aimed at getting kids outdoors and learning the basics of fishing. Open to children ages 3 to 15, the derby provides a fun, safe environment for young anglers to practice their skills. Join the event and learn more here.
Carp Fest – Free Fishing Weekend
Saturday, June 6 at 8 a.m.
Join us for this fun and free fishing contest! Des Moines Parks and Recreation is partnering with the Des Moines Izaak Walton League and the Iowa DNR to bring you Carp FEST. Join them at Gray’s Lake Park on June 6, 2026 to try your hand at Carp fishing and you could win a prize!
Gear, bait and instructions are available. Carp caught may be kept by the fisherman or donated onsite to the wildlife rehabilitation organization S.O.A.R. All ages are welcome.
2026 Pleasant Hill Fishing Derby
Saturday, June 6 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! Learn more and register here.
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 6 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.
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.