Get Hooked on Fishing In New York State!

Designated Free Fishing Days- End of June

Salmon, trout, bass, walleye, pike, muskie, shad and panfish- New York's fresh waters have it all! Every year in New York State, the last weekend in June is designated as "Free Fishing Days" by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). This year, New York State's Free Fishing Days are Saturday and Sunday, June 24 and 25. During these two days anyone can fish New York State waters without fishing license.

"The combination of New York's beautiful surroundings and the joy of fishing makes for the perfect summertime adventure", Charles A. Gargano, Chairman of Empire State Development (ESD), which administers the I LOVE NEW YORK campaign, said. "I encourage all anglers, seasoned and novice, to cast their lines in the Empire State.""

"New York is blessed with thousands of wonderful places to fish and an amazing diversity and abundance of fish to catch," said DEC Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan. "From trolling for trophy Chinook salmon in Lake Ontario, to casting a fly in our legendary Catskill trout streams to dunking a worm in a farm pond for bluegills, New York is an angling paradise."

This event was initiated in 1991 to give people the opportunity to sample the incredible fishing New York State has to offer. There is no better time to try your hand at fishing for the first time, or take the kids out for a day of fishing and get them "hooked" on this great outdoor pasttime.

The great thing about fishing is that is can be enjoyed by all ages and all lifestyles! And with many areas in New York offering great fishing, anglers can have their choice of a multitude of breath-taking settings. Head north and check out Lake Champlain, with its world-renown bass fishing, or cast your lure into the waters of Oneida Lake for some Walleye. From serene ponds to the Great Lakes, New York has a fishing style to match any personality.

If you are interested in more information about fishing in New York, DEC holds a number of free fishing clinics across the state. Contact your local DEC Regional Office for more information about these events, or go to www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dfwmr/seasons/00ffdcln.html on the DEC website. Anglers are reminded that although the need for a license has been waived for this two–day period, all other regulations remain in effect. Anglers are encouraged to check the regulations prior to hitting the water. Also, fishing licenses can be obtained at all town clerk offices statewide, as well as most retail outlets that sell fishing gear and tackle.

For more information on great areas of New York State that you will fall hook, line, and sinker for, contact us at (800) CALL-NYS or visit the I LOVE NEW YORK Web site at www.iloveny.com.

ABOUT I LOVE NEW YORK

I LOVE NEW YORK is a campaign administered by Empire State Development's Division of Tourism. First launched in 1977, I LOVE NEW YORK remains one of the most successful international tourism campaigns ever created and continues to promote the beauty and attractions of New York State's eleven geographic regions: Adirondacks, Capital – Saratoga, Catskills, Central Leatherstocking, Chautauqua-Allegheny, Finger Lakes, Greater Niagara, Hudson Valley, Long Island, New York City and Thousand Islands Seaway.

With 168 state parks, 35 state historic sites, major metropolitan centers and quaint small towns, New York State offers exciting year-round travel possibilities for visitors of all ages. To learn more, or for details on upcoming events and lodging, dial (800) CALL-NYS or visit the I LOVE NEW YORK Web site at www.iloveny.com.