NEW YORK STATE (WRGB) — Labor Day weekend will mark the launch of a new free fishing day in New York State for the 2024 season, Governor Kathy Hochul announced Friday.
The launch of Free Fishing Day on Saturday, August 31, bringing the total to seven free fishing days in New York State in 2024, complements the Governor’s Get Offline, Get Outside initiative launched this summer to promote physical and mental health by encouraging children and families to put away their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and the outdoors.
“There is no better way to say goodbye to summer than by incorporating fishing into your Labor Day weekend plans,” said Governor Hochul. “Enjoy the beauty of New York’s extraordinary natural waters and take advantage of this convenient opportunity to enjoy the holiday weekend with family and friends.”
During Free Fishing Days, no fishing license is required for freshwater fishing in New York waters. The Free Fishing Days program was created in 1991 to give people who would not otherwise fish the opportunity to try the rewarding sport of freshwater fishing for free, introduce them to a new hobby, and encourage them to support conservation by obtaining a New York State fishing license.
Sean Mahar, interim commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, said, “As summer draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to get outside, enjoy nature, and fish with family and friends. Fishing is something anyone can do, regardless of age or skill level, and I encourage both new and experienced anglers to take advantage of this free bonus fishing day to cast a line and experience New York’s world-class fishing grounds.”
To make fishing even more affordable, DEC has partnered with libraries across the state to offer a free fishing rod loan program. In addition to borrowing a book, library patrons can also borrow a fishing rod. This program offers people the opportunity to try fishing before purchasing their own equipment. For more information and a list of participating libraries, visit the DEC website.
DEC also offers a variety of resources for anyone looking to get started fishing. The I FISH NY Beginner’s Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from rigging a rod to identifying your catch to understanding fishing regulations. There is also a video series on DEC’s YouTube channel that complements the Beginner’s Guide.
On designated free fishing days, New York residents and nonresidents are permitted to fish for free without the need for a fishing license. Participants in free fishing days are reminded that while a fishing license is not required on free fishing days, all other fishing regulations still apply. In addition to free fishing days, there are also opportunities to learn to fish by offering free fishing lessons approved by the DEC.
Anglers are reminded that the New York State Department of Health (DOH) provides advice on which fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit the DOH website to search by water location.
