Free Learn to Fish Clinics
Participate in a Learn to Fish Clinic
Learn how to fish for free at an upcoming sport fishing clinic organized and conducted by DEC and numerous other organizations. In addition to casting a rod and catching fish, participants can learn about fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques, fisheries management, angling ethics, aquatic ecology, and more!
During these clinics no freshwater fishing license or enrollment in the recreational marine fishing registry is required*, but all other statewide freshwater fishing regulations and saltwater fishing regulations remain in effect (*Kids under 16 can always fish for free!).
Upcoming Clinic Events
Last updated on 1/9/2023: Check this page often as new events are added throughout the year.
| Event | Date | Time | Location | City/Town | County | Event Organizer | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington County Winterfest 2023 | 2/4/2023 | 10:00AM-2:00PM | Lake Lauderdale Park, Route 22, Cambridge, NY 12816 | Cambridge | Washington | Washington County Public Health | Elizabeth St. John, Washington County Public Health: (518) 746-2400 |
| Ice Fishing Clinic for Veteran's and Families at Vitale Park | 2/11/2023 (Rain date: 2/12/2023) |
9:00AM-12:00PM | Chip Holt Nature Center and Conesus Lake in Vitale Park, Route 20A, Lakeville, NY 14480 | Lakeville | Livingston | Chip Holt Nature Center | Matt Sanderson - Chip Holt Nature Center, (585) 519-7102 |
| Beginner Ice Fishing Clinic at Carters Pond | 2/19/2023 | 9:00AM-2:00PM | Carters Pond Wildlife Management Area, 532-540 County Rte 40, Greenwich, NY 12865 | Greenwich | Washington | NYS DEC and Washington County Federation of Sportsmen | Lt. Steve Gonyeau, NYS DEC Region 5, (518) 567-2104 |
| Kids and Adult Fishing Clinic at Cattaraugus Creek | 5/6/2023 | 10:00AM-3:00PM | Gowanda Volunteer Fire Department, 230 Aldrich Street, Gowanda, NY 14070 | Gowanda | Erie | Gowanda Volunteer Fire Co. and International Fly Fishers | Steve Raiport, Gowanda Volunteer Fire Co.: (716) 532-3434, gowandafirerescue@gmail.com Pre-registration is required as space is limited. For more details and to register, visit the Gowanda Fire Rescue website (leaves DEC website) |
Apply to Conduct or Co-host a Clinic
Formal groups or organizations can host a free fishing clinic by completing and submitting an application. Details on how to apply along with the rules for running a clinic are available in the following applications.
Conduct a Free Fishing Clinic Applications:
- Free Fishing Clinic Application For the Public or Organized Groups (PDF)
- Free Fishing Clinic Application For Veterans and Active-Duty Members of U.S Armed Forces (PDF)
Other Helpful Information
Free Fishing Days/Weekends
Take advantage of NY's free fishing days designated during several dates throughout the year; no recreational fishing license is required to fish these days!
Fishing Rod Loaner Program
Rent fishing rods, bobbers, and hooks from public libraries and parks; offers a great opportunity while you learn how to fish without needing to purchase your own fishing equipment!
I FISH NY Beginner's Guide to Freshwater Fishing
Learn about all the basics of fishing in this helpful how-to guide.
Fishing Skills
Browse through helpful information on getting started in fishing and how to improve your fishing skills.
DEC Events Calendar
Check for other outdoor and educational fish or wildlife events hosted or co-sponsored by DEC for you and your family to enjoy.
Project Healing Waters (leaves DEC website)
Free fishing opportunities for veterans and active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces.