NH Hosts Free Fishing Day January 17

Ice fishing huts serve as great protection during the winter. Photo/NH Fish & Game.

Like all fishing, ice fishing is a waiting game. Photo/NH Fish & Game.

Anyone who has ever wanted to try ice fishing will have a great opportunity to do just that this January in New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Fish and Game officials recently announced the state will hold a winter free fishing day on Saturday, January 17, 2026. On that day, anyone will be able to fish without a license in New Hampshire.

This annual winter event takes place on the third Saturday in January each year. New Hampshire also offers a free fishing day on the first Saturday in June.

Persons participating in a fishing tournament must still hold a license, even on free fishing day.

Find more information about ice fishing in New Hampshire, including videos, a list of bait dealers, and more at www.wildlife.nh.gov/fishing-new-hampshire/ice-fishing.

Written by Dan Mathers
Dan is the editor of New England Boating & Fishing and the former associate editor for Offshore Magazine. His freelance work has appeared in Backpacker, Adirondack Life, Cape Cod Life, South Shore Living, and many other publications. Dan loves exploring the New England outdoors. He enjoys paddling, camping, hiking, and running ultramarathons.