State will have free fishing weekend June 26-27, with no fishing licenses required

Posted 22 June 2021 at 12:24 pm

Photo by Tom Rivers: A fisherman walks along the western pier at the Oak Orchard Harbor at Point Breeze in this photo taken on March 20, 2021.

Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Office

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that Saturday, June 26 and Sunday, June 27, is 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,” Governor 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).

“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,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos. “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.