Gov. Kathy Hochul today announced Saturday, September 24, as a fishing day off in New York State. One of six annual days, this free freshwater fishing day coincides with National Hunting and Fishing Day, which is celebrated to promote outdoor activities that make a significant contribution to New York’s economy and fish conservation and wildlife contribute.
“From Babylon to Buffalo, Free Fishing Days are a great opportunity for New Yorkers to enjoy the great outdoors at one of upstate New York’s many premier fishing spots,” said Governor Hochul. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of Free Fishing Day this weekend to support the local economy in New York and see the benefits of our extensive conservation efforts to protect and enhance our natural resources.”
On Free Fishing Days, New Yorkers and non-residents without a license can fish New York’s freshwater waters for free. Free Fishing Day participants are advised that although the requirement for a fishing license will be waived, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. The sixth and final free fishing day of 2022 will be on Veterans Day, November 11, 2022.
New York State Environmental Protection Commissioner Basil Seggos said: “DEC is thrilled to support Free Fishing Days year-round to bring people closer to the sport of fishing. Along with other improvements like our new Tackle Box feature in the HuntFishNY smartphone app, DEC continues to work to make fishing more accessible to local anglers of all skill levels to share the excellent fishing in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams in every region enjoy.”
Earlier this summer, DEC introduced the new “Tackle Box” feature to improve fishing tourism and help anglers new and experienced enjoy great fishing throughout New York. The Tackle Box feature is available in DEC’s HuntFishNY smartphone app (available for iOS and Android), which provides information on almost all state fishing regulations, bodies of water, state-operated fishing spots, inventory information, and other useful features such as photos for identifying fish, likely to be found in a particular river, lake or stream. Visit DEC’s website for more information on the HuntFishNY Mobile App.
DEC’s Places to Fish webpages are also a reliable resource for those ready to start planning their next fishing trip. For beginners interested in getting started, the I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from rigging up a fishing rod to identifying your catch and understanding fishing regulations.
If not participating in the Free Fishing Days, anglers 16 years and older must have a valid New York State fishing license to fish in freshwater. Fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. Visit the DEC website for more information on purchasing a freshwater fishing license. Information on the required toll-free Recreational Marine Fishing Registry for sea fishing can be found here.
New Yorkers can learn more about obtaining a license and more information about freshwater fishing here. You can also find information about saltwater fishing here.
