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Free fishing weekend announced by state

Saturday and Sunday will be a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State, the second of six Free Fishing Days recognized across the state each year.

“As the school year closes out and the summer officially begins, the timing of New York’s upcoming Free Fishing Weekend couldn’t be better,” state Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “Whether you’re returning to the angling as an expert, introducing a friend or family member, or casting a line for the very first time, Free Fishing Weekend is the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand all the benefits of fishing.”

During designated free fishing days, New York residents and non-residents are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license. Participating anglers are reminded that although the requirement for a fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. Remaining 2021 Free Fishing Days include National Hunting and Fishing Day (Sept. 25) and Veterans Day (Nov. 11).

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “New York is home to some of the most exceptional fishing opportunities in the nation and anglers from around the world visit our state’s waters every year in search of their next big catch. I encourage all anglers, from first timers to experts, to take advantage of the upcoming free fishing weekend by casting a line in New York’s waters and experiencing the joy that comes with fishing.”

For beginning anglers interested in getting started, the I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from rigging up a fishing rod to identifying catch and understanding fishing regulations. DEC’s Places to Fish webpages are a reliable source of information for those ready to plan their next fishing trip. In addition, DEC recently launched an interactive Trout Stream Fishing Map on the DECinfo Locator to provide a one-stop shop for information on stocking, fishing access, season dates, and regulations.

To improve public safety and encourage visitors to State-owned and managed lands to practice responsible recreation, DEC recently launched the ‘Love Our New York Lands’ campaign. The campaign is responsive to the steady increase in the number of visitors to state lands, both during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the decade prior, as more and more New Yorkers and visitors from other states and countries discovered the natural beauty of New York State. For details and more information, visit the Love Our New York Lands webpage.

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