For Release: Monday, April 13, 2009
DEC to Host Youth Fishing Program in City of Albany
Fishing Season Kicks Off With Free Event at Six Mile Waterworks
In conjunction with spring recess for Capital Region schools, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) I FISH NY Program will conduct a free youth fishing program at the City of Albany's Six Mile Waterworks on April 13-17 from approximately 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Located in the Town of Colonie off Fuller Road, the Waterworks' lake is home to a variety of freshwater fish species including: largemouth bass, sunfish, yellow perch, chain pickerel, brown bullhead and most recently, rainbow trout. For the second year, DEC will be stocking Six Mile Waterworks with approximately 1,900 catchable size rainbow trout prior to the week-long program.
"Not only does this exciting program focus on one of our agency's top priorities -- connecting New Yorkers to nature - we hope it also fosters awareness of fishing opportunities in urban areas," said DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis. "The week-long event will allow participants to take advantage of one of Albany's outstanding natural resources."
Expanding fishing opportunities in urban areas is just one of the I FISH NY Program's objectives to increase fishing participation in New York State. DEC Fisheries staff will be on hand during the week in the late morning and early afternoon to offer advice and assist kids taking up the sport. Loaner fishing rods, bait, bobbers and hooks will be available. Supplies are limited, so people are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment if they have it. Information materials will also available on local fishing resources, fishing basics and fish identification.
"This program presents another wholesome activity for our young people to enjoy over the school vacation break," said City of Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings. "Not only can participants hone their fishing skills, but they'll also have the opportunity to explore the outdoors at Six Mile Waterworks, which is a valued community resource."
For additional fishing opportunities, every year the last full weekend in June is designated as Free Fishing Days in New York State. During those two days, anyone can fish New York State waters with out a fishing license. This event started in 1991 to allow people of all ages the opportunity to sample the incredible fishing New York has to offer. Since no license is required, it is the perfect time to take a friend or relative fishing. In 2009, New York State's Free Fishing Days are Saturday and Sunday, June 27 & 28.
In addition to the June Free Fishing Days weekend, there are a number of "Free Fishing Events" held in various locations throughout the state. Free Fishing Events are DEC sponsored events (such as family fishing clinics) where participants can learn about fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques, fisheries management, angling ethics and aquatic ecology. Each of DEC's nine regions can sponsor up to four free fishing events per year. Most free fishing events occur during the period from April through October. For a listing of currently posted events, please visit the DEC website, but be sure to check back periodically to see if additional events have been added.
As a reminder, anyone over the age of 16 must possess a valid freshwater fishing license. Licenses can be purchased at town clerk offices, DEC headquarters on Broadway, as well as at most sporting goods stores.
Six Mile Water Works is off Fuller Road, in the Town of Colonie between Washington and Central Avenues. For further directions, visit mapquest .
For further information on the Six Mile Waterworks program contact Joelle Ernst with DEC's Bureau of Fisheries at (518) 402-8891 or visit the DEC website.
