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Learn to Fish

New York's Free Fishing Weekend is June 29-30, 2013.

I FISH NY Program

Image of a happy kid holding a smallmouth bass
Learning to fish brings big smiles!

The I FISH NY Program's primary goal is to increase fishing participation and awareness of the outstanding fishing opportunities in New York State.

Free Fishing Clinics

List of free fishing clinics where no license is required!

Apply to Conduct a Free Fishing Clinic

Fishing Skills

Fishing basics

Learn about techniques to catch bass, catfish, carp, panfish, trout in streams, and walleye

Where to fish in Lakes and Ponds and Rivers and Streams

Learn about Ice Fishing

Fishing tips and Advice

Taking your child fishing

Catching and Releasing Trout

Weigh your fish with a ruler!

How to fish responsibly


More about Learn to Fish:

  • I FISH NY - Learn about the I FISH NY Program.
  • Free Fishing Clinics - A listing of DEC sponsored events (such as family fishing clinics) where participants can fish for free-- no license is required.
  • Free Fishing Weekend - Learn about New York's Free Fishing Weekend
  • Fishing Skills - Fishing skills to help you catch more fish!
  • Fishing Tips and Advice - A variety of helpful fishing tips, including information on catching and releasing trout, fishing responsibly, and using a ruler to weigh your fish.
  • Fishing Responsibly in New York State - Information on non-toxic tackle, catch and release fishing, fish as bait, and non-native fish species.