National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW) is held annually during the first week of June. This year, the dates are June 1-9, 2024. It's a great time to be on the water in just about every part of the country.
It doesn't matter what kind of fish you like to chase or what type of boat you want to skipper—when it's National Fishing and Boating Week, the celebration includes everyone.
Here are five ways to enjoy the fun and have a great time during 2024 National Boating and Fishing Week.
How to Celebrate National Boating and Fishing Week
1. Grab a Fishing Rod and Reel
Half the fun of National Boating and Fishing Week is, well, fishing! If you don't own a rod and reel, you can rent one at many marinas and fishing tackle shops.
Toss the rod and reel into the boat, along with some high-quality bait, and prepare for a morning or afternoon of trying to land the big one.
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2. Invite a Friend On Board—Or Rent a Boat
National Boating and Fishing Week is an ideal time to share your love of the water with others. Do you have a friend who seems interested in boating but doesn’t have a boat of their own? Invite them on board for a day of cruising in the warm sunshine to show them all the relaxation boating offers.
Or, if your crew of friends wants to celebrate, but you need a boat of your own, then look into local boat rentals or peer-to-peer boat-sharing options in your area. Find ways to get on the water by exploring our Go Boating Today tool.
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3. Plan a Raft Up
Hanging out with fellow boaters is one of the best ways to have fun on the water. Coordinate a time and date with some friends for a raft-up, where you anchor out together and tie off the boats into a long "raft" for a party on the water.
If one boat has a top-shelf sound system, another has a killer barbecue grill (see Grilling on a Boat: 3 Quick Tips for Cookouts Onboard), and another is stocked with water toys galore, then you and your friends have all the makings of a phenomenal party.
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4. Treat Yourself with New Gear—Or Even a New Boat
Do you have a wandering eye for other boats? Have you been coveting your buddy's favorite rod or reel?
There's no better time than National Boating and Fishing Week to upgrade with something new for yourself. Depending on your budget, it can be small or big—maybe even a whole new boat (be sure to browse our Boat Finder tool). But hey, if you're celebrating the pastime, there might as well be presents.
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5. Share Your Love for Boating and Fishing on Social Media
If you're having fun during National Boating and Fishing Week, share the news with friends and family on social media.
Use the hashtags #NFBW2024 and #SeeYouOutHere to let everyone know that you're at the helm and having a blast—and of course, don't forget to tag @DiscoverBoating for a chance to be featured in our story.
And who knows, you may encourage a new boater or two to join us on the waterways.
