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Tips for Fishing in Manchester-Bedford Area

June 7th is free fishing find all the tips here for a successful day

By Emily St. Onge, Manchester-Bedford, NH Publisher June 4, 2025

Saturday June 7th is free fishing day. Yes! That means you can go fishing without a fishing license. Even though you don't need a license you still of course have to abide all the rules and regulations. Need to freshen up: New Hampshire Freshwater Fishing Seasons & Rules | eRegulations

Here are some tips to make Free Fishing Day a successful day for you and your family!

Check out the Fishing Map

Head to the map on New Hampshire Fish and Game website: Where to Fish | State of New Hampshire Fish and Game. These maps are broken up by region here is the Manchester/Nashua region: manch-fish-guide-2021.pdf

Prepare for all Types of Weather

As of right now (Wednesday) the weather on Saturday looks like 40% rain. Although that is not the best weather for us to stand outside fishing it might be great weather to catch a fish! The cloudy, rainy days are sometimes the best days to catch a fish. 

Head out Early

Easier said than done especially if you are going with kids. Even when I leave the house without my kids, I somehow always end up being late. Since Saturday is free fishing day that means it probably will be busier than usual. The best time of day to catch a fish is early morning or dusk.

Have Plans

Have a plan and then have a backup plan. Free fishing day will be busy! 

Bring the Bait... and the Snacks

When we bring our kids, we typically go digging in the dirt at home to get some worms before we go. While your kids are hunting for the fish bait pack some snacks to munch on while you are out. After you have filled that lunchbox with all the snacks, pack a few more just in case. You can never have enough snacks! 


Have fun and enjoy your day! I hope you catch a fish!


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