iFISHILLINOIS

Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair

Join the IDNR on June 6 for this fun and free family event!

Come join the IDNR on Saturday, June 6, at Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton for the Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair, featuring fun and educational activities for the entire family. This popular event will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the park, which is near Grafton on Illinois 100. There are no admission or parking fees, and no fishing license or gear is needed to participate.

The fishing fair will feature a variety of outdoor activities, and every child who completes at least seven of the featured stations will receive a prize and have a chance to catch trout from the pond. Returning and new entertainment this year includes a 4,000-gallon mobile aquarium stocked with fish species found in the Illinois River; Hall of Fame fisherman Jimmy Houston; Tim Guraedy, known as “Mountain Man” from the television show “Duck Dynasty;” Camo the Clown; music by Steve and Jackie of Outlaw Opry; and food and beverages.

For more information, contact Pere Marquette State Park at 618-786-3323, ext. 1, or Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge at 618-883-2524.

Illinois Free Fishing Days

June 19 – 22, 2026

The 2026 Illinois Free Fishing Days celebration is slated for June 19 – 22. During this four-day celebration of fishing in Illinois, anglers can fish without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp. 

Whether you're new to fishing or wish to share your love of fishing with your kids, friends, or family, these four days provide the perfect opportunity! Our website has tips for taking kids fishing. We also have advicefor first-timers and the equipmentbeginners will need to get started!  

If you're interested in hosting a group event during this celebration, please fill and submit this formfor free materials for children and adults, as available.