2020 FREE Fishing Days (Fish Without a License) Posted On May 16, 2020 2020 FREE Fishing Days During National Fishing and Boating Week, most states offer free fishing days. These are days where anglers are allowed to fish on public bodies of water without a fishing license. Visit that page to see when your state has free fishing days this year.During National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW), all states (and Washington, DC) offer free fishing days. These are days – some states even offer free fishing weekends – where anglers can go fishing without a license on public bodies of water. Free Fishing Days activities vary by state. For free fishing day Texas, the state releases hundreds of catfish to help beginners catch a bite. Free fishing day California is known for the many varieties of fish made available. Check out the Free Fishing Days 2020 activities in your state to see how your state celebrates this fun-for-all-ages event.