Free Fishing Weekend This Weekend In New York State

Has it been a while since you've gotten a line in the water?  Want to get out and do some fishing this weekend?  You can do it without a license all across the state.

Whether you're a seasoned vet, or you're brand new to fishing but have always wanted to try it, this weekend is for you.  It's a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State this weekend (6/29-6/30).

What is a Free Fishing Weekend?

Normally you need a license to fish the fresh waters in New York State.  While it's not expensive or difficult to get one, it can just be an inconvenience.  This weekend though, you won't need one if you want to go fishing in the waters of New York State.  It's part of a promotion to help people to experience the freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams and learn about the sport of fishing in New York State.

"New York’s free fishing days provide the perfect opportunity for anyone eager to try fishing for the first time. With a wide variety of freshwater settings and sportfish species, anglers have a wide range of fishing experiences to choose from." - Governor Kathy Hochul

All Other Regulations Are Still In Effect

Something you should remember when heading into a "Free Fishing Weekend" though is that all the other regulations are still in effect.  You will still have to follow the rules of the DEC.  To know what the rules are, there is a pamphlet called "I FISH NY Beginners' Guide to Freshwater Fishing" where you can freshen up or learn the rules before you go out.

Don't panic if you can't get out this weekend

If you cannot make it out this weekend, the good news is that they have these free fishing weekends a couple of times per year.  They announce the dates early in the year and they spread them out so that not only will you have multiple chances, but you'll also be able to fish for different species of fish.

Click here for more on the Free Freshwater Fishing Days in New York.