Environment DEC
From the May 2008 issue
Free Fishing Days Scheduled
New York State is among the nation's premier, year-round fishing destinations, and to help newcomers or those interested in learning how to fish, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has scheduled free fishing events in each of its nine regions. These events are in addition to the state's annual free fishing weekend scheduled for June 28 and 29, 2008.
During the last full weekend in June, residents and visitors can fish without a license
Each DEC regional office sponsors clinics to help teach adults and children the basics of fishing. Participants are supplied with equipment and learn about fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques, fisheries management, angling ethics and aquatic ecology. A freshwater fishing license is not required for these events. DEC also designates the last full weekend in June each year as a free fishing weekend, enabling all residents and visitors to fish New York State's waters without a freshwater fishing license. Although a fishing license is not required for either the regional free fishing events or the free fishing weekend, DEC's other fishing rules and regulations remain in effect.
Check NYCDEP's Website
It is important to note that permits from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) still may be required to fish in the New York City watershed. Information about how to obtain a permit can be found on the NYCDEP website.
More Information
To learn more about New York's regulations or for more information about how and where to obtain a fishing license, please visit DEC's website. The list of regional free fishing events also can be found on DEC's website.
