Illinois House Republicans’ public policy priorities mostly center around defending taxpayers, strengthening local economies, and preserving traditional values. However, another dimension of our caucus members’ work involves supporting outdoor traditions and investing in the next generation of Illinois sportsmen and sportswomen.

Through their involvement in the Illinois Sportsmen’s caucus, a bipartisan group of lawmakers that promotes hunting, fishing, conservation, and recreational activities, House Republicans are helping preserve that part of Illinois’ proud heritage. 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (INDR) is offering Illinois residents an opportunity to fish without a license during Father’s Day Weekend. From Friday, June 13, through Monday, June 16, all Illinois residents aged 16 and over can fish without a license during these four days. The 2025 Free Fishing Days allows anglers to fish without the need for a fishing license, salmon stamp, or inland trout stamp. Keep in mind that all other state fishing regulations remain in effect. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is celebrating 100 years of conservation and service to the people of Illinois throughout 2025 and encouraging non-anglers to discover or rediscover the fun of fishing and to introduce children to the activity.

For many Illinoisans, fishing can be a beloved tradition that serves as both a leisure activity and a source of food. Eating fish from state waters, however, can pose risks to public health. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has issued its latest report on sport fish advisories, which serves as an annual reminder for fishermen everywhere about what their catch is safe to consume.



Each year, to celebrate Father’s Day and encourage people to spend time in nature, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources designates its Free Fishing Days. The annual four-day-long celebration of fathers and fishing lets in-state residents cast their lines without a fishing license, salmon stamp, or inland trout stamp and runs from Friday, June 14 through Monday, the 17th.

Those who are eager to try their hand at catching fish can look forward to a number of events being held by forest preserves, parks, and fishing clubs across the state during the 2024 Illinois Free Fishing Days. Head to Hidden Lakes Trout Farm in Bolingbrook to take advantage of free pole rentals and gifts for Dad, enjoy breathtaking views and free entry at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Carterville, or compete in the biggest and smallest fish competition to win prizes at the Father’s Day Fishing Frenzy at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake.