×

State Announces Free Fishing Weekend

A lone boater enjoying fishing on Chautauqua Lake. P-J photo by Dennis Phillips

Gov. Kathy Hochul today announced a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State on Saturday and Sunday. This event marks two of the state’s six Free Fishing Days offered every year to increase fishing participation and awareness of the outstanding fishing opportunities in New York and introduce new anglers to the sport of fishing.

“Free fishing days provide an exciting chance for all New Yorkers, from Brooklyn to Buffalo, to try fishing for the first time and encourages experienced anglers to dust off their fishing rods and get outside,” Hochul said. “Fishing opportunities across New York State are second to none, and I encourage New Yorkers to head out on the water this weekend with friends and family to enjoy one of our state’s renowned fishing destinations.”

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “As the school year winds down and summer approaches, the timing of this Free Fishing Weekend couldn’t be better. Whether you’re interested in getting back into the sport yourself or introducing friends and family to fishing for the first time, New York’s Free Fishing Days are a great opportunity to cast a line and get outside.”

For beginning anglers, the I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on fishing basics, including rigging up a fishing rod, identifying catch, and understanding fishing regulations. A fun, interactive version of the guide comprised of a series of brief videos can be found on DEC’s YouTube channel. DEC’s Places to Fish webpages are a reliable source of information for those ready to plan their next fishing trip.

Remaining Free Fishing Days in 2022 include National Hunting and Fishing Day (Sept. 24) and Veterans Day (Nov. 11). During these designated Free Fishing Days, New York residents and non-residents are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license. Free Fishing Day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. For more information about fishing regulations, go to https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7917.html.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today