Comprehensive Ways to Watch Local News on Firestick: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

By Michael ChenLast Updated July 30, 2025

Introduction: Why Access Local News on Firestick?

Staying connected to your community is essential, whether it’s for breaking news, weather alerts, local events, or sports coverage. With the rise of streaming devices, many people are turning to Firestick for their media needs. However, accessing local news on Firestick often requires knowing about the right apps and services. This guide provides detailed and actionable strategies to help you watch local news channels on your Firestick, using only verified methods and official resources.

1. Using Official Free News Apps Available on Firestick

One of the most straightforward methods is to install free, legitimate news apps directly from the Amazon Appstore. These apps offer live streams and on-demand content from regional and national broadcasters:

1.1. VUit App

The VUit app is a free service that provides access to over 200 local news stations across the United States. It covers news, weather, politics, sports, and more. VUit collaborates with many regional broadcasters, making it a robust option for local news. To use VUit on Firestick:

From your Firestick home screen, navigate to the Find tab and select Search .
Type “VUit” and choose it from the list.
Select the VUit app and click Get to download.
Once installed, open the app and browse available local news channels.

VUit is entirely free and legal. You do not need to create an account to access content. Coverage may vary by region, so check the app for your local station availability. [1]

1.2. Very Local

Very Local is another free app available in the Amazon Appstore. It aggregates newscasts from various local stations and is noted for its easy setup and broad compatibility. To install:

Go to the Find tab on your Firestick and use the voice search or manual search to enter “Very Local”.
Select the app, download, and open it.
Choose your city or region to view newscasts and local programming.

This app is especially useful if you do not have a cable subscription or an external antenna. [4]

1.3. Pluto TV

Pluto TV is a legitimate, free streaming service that includes several local news channels and curated news feeds. While not every local affiliate is available, Pluto TV offers a range of news content, including national and some regional coverage. To use:

Download Pluto TV from the Amazon Appstore via the search function.
Open the app, navigate to the news section, and look for local news options.

Pluto TV does not require a subscription and is supported by ads. [2]

2. Subscription Streaming Services with Local Channels

If you’re looking for a more comprehensive approach, consider subscribing to a “skinny bundle” streaming service that includes local TV affiliates. These services often provide local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and sometimes PBS, depending on your area:

DIRECTV STREAM : Offers live local channels in many regions. Visit the official DIRECTV website and use their channel lookup tool to confirm local availability.
FuboTV : Known for sports, but also provides substantial local news coverage. Check channel availability on the official FuboTV website.
Sling TV : Offers some local channels in select markets. Sling does not cover every region, so review their “Channels” page for your zip code. Pricing typically starts around $40/month, but may vary.

To access these services:

Search for the service’s app (e.g., “FuboTV”, “DIRECTV STREAM”, “Sling TV”) in the Amazon Appstore.
Install the app and log in with your subscription credentials.
Browse or search for local news channels in the app’s guide.

Most providers offer free trials, allowing you to evaluate local channel availability before committing. [3]

3. Accessing Local News via Over-the-Air Broadcasts with an Antenna

For viewers who prefer traditional broadcast TV, using an HD antenna with your Firestick setup can provide access to local channels for free. While Firestick itself cannot receive antenna signals, you can pair it with networked tuner devices like Tablo or HDHomeRun:

Connect your HD antenna to a network tuner (such as Tablo or HDHomeRun).
Install the corresponding app (e.g., Tablo or HDHomeRun) from the Amazon Appstore on your Firestick.
Within the app, scan for available over-the-air channels and start streaming live local content to your TV via Firestick.

This method requires purchasing additional hardware but offers long-term savings compared to monthly streaming subscriptions. It’s especially valuable in areas with strong over-the-air signal coverage. [3]

4. Using the Firestick’s Built-in Live TV Guide

Firestick devices now feature a built-in Live TV section that aggregates channels from installed apps. To utilize this feature for local news:

From the Firestick home screen, scroll to the Live tab.
The guide will display live channels available through your installed apps (such as VUit, Pluto TV, or others).
Select a channel to watch live news directly, without having to open each app individually.

This feature streamlines access and makes it easy to switch between local news providers. [2] [5]

5. Alternative: Accessing Local News via Web Browsers

If your preferred local channel does not have a Firestick app, you can often watch live or recorded newscasts through their official website. Firestick supports the Silk Browser, which you can use as follows:

Install the Amazon Silk Browser from the Appstore.
Open the browser and navigate to your local TV station’s official website (e.g., your city’s ABC, CBS, NBC, or FOX affiliate).
Look for a “Watch Live” or “Live Stream” section-many stations stream their news broadcasts online.

This approach is especially helpful for smaller stations that do not have a dedicated streaming app. [1]

6. Potential Challenges and Practical Solutions

Some users may encounter regional restrictions or limited app selection. Here are solutions:

Regional Restrictions: Some news streams may be geo-blocked. Consider checking your location settings or contacting the provider for access details.
Missing Local Channels: Not every region has full coverage through apps. Combining multiple methods (e.g., VUit, Very Local, browser access, and an antenna) increases your chances of finding local news.
Subscription Costs: Free apps and browser access provide cost-effective alternatives to paid streaming bundles.

7. Step-by-Step Summary for Getting Started

Decide whether you prefer free apps, subscription services, or over-the-air solutions.
Search for and install VUit, Very Local, and Pluto TV from the Amazon Appstore.
For paid options, research DIRECTV STREAM, FuboTV, or Sling TV and confirm local channel availability before subscribing.
Consider adding an HD antenna and compatible app for maximum coverage.
Utilize the Firestick’s “Live” tab to see all available live channels in one place.
If your local station lacks a Firestick app, use the Silk Browser to watch directly from their website.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are these methods legal? A: Yes, all apps and services mentioned are official, legal, and available through the Amazon Appstore or the broadcasters’ official websites.

Q: Do I need a subscription to watch local news? A: Many apps (VUit, Very Local, Pluto TV) are free and do not require a subscription. Some paid streaming services offer additional local content.

Q: Can I watch on multiple devices? A: Yes, most apps and services allow access on Firestick, smartphones, tablets, and web browsers, but check each service’s device policy.

Key Takeaways

Multiple free and paid options are available for accessing local news on Firestick.
Combine apps, the built-in Live TV guide, browser access, and an antenna for best results.
Always use verified apps from the Amazon Appstore or official station websites for reliable service.