An annual event is coming up this week that encourages all Iowans to engage in an outdoor activity.

Iowa Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Aron Arthur says Free Fishing Weekend is this Friday through Sunday where anyone can fish without a proper license.  

“We encourage people to get out there that maybe haven’t tried it or haven’t fished in a long time (and) don’t know if they want to buy a license. A license is only $22, it’s good until January 10th of 2026. But if you don’t know if you want to get out or just want to go fishing one weekend, you have the opportunity to go anywhere on Free Fishing Weekend and go fish.”

Arthur points out that some of the popular areas for fishing on public waters in Greene County include Spring Lake Park, Pounds Pits and the Raccoon River. He talks about the best fishing from the shore along the river is below the three rock rolling dams including Henderson Park, Squirrel Hollow Park and Hyde Park.“A lot of times those fish will stay there because you’ll have water that’s stationary there and a place for them to rest and to feed. So if you’re going to go fishing on the river those are always 

Arthur adds that outside of Free Fishing Weekend, anyone who is over 16 years old must have a valid fishing license and individuals younger than 16 are not required to possess a fishing license to fish, but they must be with someone who does have a license. Contact the Greene County Recorder’s Office to purchase a fishing license or by clicking here.