Free Fishing Clinics

Fishing clinics are considered "Recreation" under Phase Four of the New York Forward directive. Until a region of the state is deemed safe to open under Phase Four, DEC will not be approving applications to conduct a free sportfishing clinic .

Free Sport Fishing Events are fishing programs where participants can fish for free; no freshwater fishing license or enrollment in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry is required. In addition to fishing, participants can learn about fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques, fisheries management, angling ethics and aquatic ecology. In addition to the Free Sport Fishing Events, 2020 free fishing days are as follows: February 15-16 (Presidents Day Weekend), June 27-28 (Free Fishing Weekend), September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) and November 11 (Veterans Day) have also been newly designated as Free Fishing Days. During these days, anyone can fish the fresh waters of NY and no license is required. This table is routinely updated, so check back often for a fishing program near you!