Community Fishing at National Arboretum w/ FONA x Anacostia Riverkeeper

From a kid catching their first fish to a grandparent recollecting their own childhood fishing, our fishing programs create vital memories for community members, connecting them with their river. These fishing events bring educational value to the community by raising awareness about the dangers of consuming fish from the river due to toxic pollution like PCBs and PFAS “forever chemicals”.

Fishing events at the U.S. National Arboretum are a unique partnership between Anacostia Riverkeeper and Friends of the National Arboretum. Participants will check in at the Asian Collections parking lot, then will walk just over a half a mile downhill on gravel and paved pathways to get to the Anacostia River for fishing with the Anacostia Riverkeeper.

Family-friendly activities will be set up along the path down to the river to encourage exploration together.

This event is free to attend, but registration is required. All supplies provided, and our staff will teach you to fish! Fishing is first come, first-on-the-dock for registered attendees. If the dock is at capacity, there is a waitlist and 1-hour fishing limit.

All participants must complete a liability waiver before participating in any Community Fishing events.

Thank you to the National Park Service's Chesapeake Gateways program for supporting this initiative.

Reserve Your Ticket

This event is free, but reservations are currently limited. If your plans change after you reserve tickets and you can no longer make the event, please cancel your reservation.

Important Notes

Weather Cancellations: Lightning, thunderstorms, or heavy rain can cancel fishing. Expect notification of cancellation on the morning of the activity via email and on the FONA and Anacostia Riverkeeper Instagram accounts.

Getting to Fishing Event: The Anacostia River Dock at the U.S. National Arboretum Gate is best reached by car, parking in the Asian Collections Parking Lot. Please see the FAQ below for details for using a ride share to get to the event. More details will be sent in the days leading up to the event as well.

Host or Publisher Friends of the National Arboretum