Reel ‘Em In! Fish For Free in New York State This Weekend

There are only two free fishing days left in 2023 and one of them coincides with National Hunting and Fishing Day. Saturday, September 23 is National Hunting and Fishing Day and New York State is allowing everyone to fish for free without a license.

Where Can You Fish For Free Saturday?

This Saturday, September 23rd, the first day of fall, New York residents can fish without a license in any of the seventy-five hundred lakes and ponds and in the seventy thousand miles of rivers and streams across New York state.

Basil Seggos the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said,

Over the years, DEC has received feedback from people who permanently picked up the sport after attending one of New York's free freshwater fishing days, and that's something we love to hear. Fishing New York's world-class waters is more than just an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors all year long, it's a perfect chance to spend time and connect with family and friends.

When and Why Were Free Fishing Days Created?

Free fishing days began back in 1991 to help give New Yorkers a chance to try fishing who might not have the opportunity to purchase a license. The hope is that it introduces people to a new hobby and encourages them to support fishing by eventually purchasing a New York state fishing license.

There Are Some Guidelines to Follow

Free fishing day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. With the exception of free fishing days, anglers who are 16 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license. For more information on purchasing a license, visit the DEC website.

The final New York State free fishing day will be held on Veterans' Day, Saturday, November 11th.