Free Fishing Days in New York: Dates, Locations, and Tips

New York Fishing its diverse waterways, from the pristine Adirondack lakes to the urban fishing spots of New York City. While a fishing license is typically required for anglers aged 16 and older, Free Fishing Days provide special opportunities for everyone to experience the joy of fishing without purchasing a license.

In 2025, New York has designated six free fishing days spread across four different periods throughout the year. These special days allow both residents and non-residents to fish New York’s public waters without a freshwater fishing license, creating accessible opportunities for beginners to try the sport and for experienced anglers to introduce friends and family to fishing.

What Are Free Fishing Days?

Free Fishing Days are specific dates designated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) when the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived. These days allow anyone to fish in New York’s public freshwater bodies without purchasing a license, although all other fishing regulations remain in effect.

The program serves multiple purposes:

• Introducing new people to recreational fishing
• Reconnecting former anglers with the sport
• Encouraging tourism and outdoor recreation
• Promoting awareness of New York’s aquatic resources
• Supporting local economies through increased outdoor activity

As Governor Kathy Hochul noted, “Free Fishing Days are a great, affordable way for residents and visitors to explore new places and provide an opportunity for anyone looking to get outdoors and enjoy nature.”

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos added that Free Fishing Days offer “a perfect opportunity to try fishing for the first time, introduce someone new to the sport, or reconnect with one of the most popular outdoor activities.”

History and Legal Framework

Free Fishing Days were established in New York as part of efforts to increase public awareness of the state’s outstanding fishing opportunities and to encourage more people to participate in recreational fishing. The program is authorized under New York State Environmental Conservation Law and has been expanded over the years from the original weekend in June to include additional days throughout the year.

The concept has proven so successful that many other states now offer similar programs, recognizing the value of providing license-free fishing opportunities to engage new participants in the sport.

2025 Free Fishing Days in New York

For 2025, New York State has designated six Free Fishing Days, strategically scheduled throughout the year to offer diverse seasonal fishing experiences.

Date	Day	Associated Event	Best For
February 15, 2025	Saturday	Presidents’ Day Weekend	Ice fishing, winter trout
February 16, 2025	Sunday	Presidents’ Day Weekend	Ice fishing, winter trout
June 28, 2025	Saturday	Summer Weekend	Bass, panfish, summer fishing
June 29, 2025	Sunday	Summer Weekend	Bass, panfish, summer fishing
September 27, 2025	Saturday	National Hunting and Fishing Day	Fall fishing, salmon runs
November 11, 2025	Tuesday	Veterans Day	Late fall fishing, steelhead

Each free fishing period offers unique seasonal opportunities:

Winter Free Fishing Days (February 15-16, 2025)

The first Free Fishing Days of 2025 coincide with Presidents’ Day weekend in mid-February. This winter opportunity allows anglers to experience ice fishing on many of New York’s frozen lakes and ponds, a tradition that brings communities together during the coldest months.

February is an excellent time for:

• Ice fishing on frozen lakes and ponds
• Targeting cold-water species like trout, salmon, pike, and perch through the ice
• Fishing for steelhead in Lake Ontario tributaries in regions without ice

Winter fishing requires specific safety precautions. The DEC recommends a minimum of 4 inches of clear ice for foot traffic and reminds anglers to check ice conditions before venturing out. Local bait shops and fishing forums often provide up-to-date information on ice conditions.

Summer Free Fishing Weekend (June 28-29, 2025)

The summer Free Fishing weekend in late June coincides with peak fishing season across New York. This period offers ideal conditions for fishing in lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams throughout the state. The warmer weather makes this weekend particularly family-friendly and a great time to introduce children to fishing.

June is prime time for:

• Largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing as the season typically opens in mid-June
• Panfish such as bluegill, pumpkinseed, and crappie
• Trout in cooler streams and deeper lakes
• Northern pike and walleye in larger lakes

Many communities host special events during this weekend, including fishing clinics and competitions. The Hudson River Fishing Clinic will be held at West Harlem Piers Park from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on June 28, offering catch-and-release fishing with gear provided through a partnership with the Hudson River Fisherman’s Association.

National Hunting and Fishing Day (September 27, 2025)

The Free Fishing Day in September coincides with National Hunting and Fishing Day, a nationwide celebration of outdoor recreation traditions. Early fall offers some of the year’s best fishing conditions as many species actively feed to prepare for winter.

September is an excellent time for:

• Salmon runs in Lake Ontario and Lake Erie tributaries
• Bass fishing in lakes and ponds before water temperatures drop
• Pike and musky in larger lakes and rivers
• Fall trout fishing as water temperatures cool

This day often features educational events and demonstrations at various locations throughout the state, providing opportunities to learn more about conservation efforts and fishing techniques.

Veterans Day Free Fishing (November 11, 2025)

The final Free Fishing Day of 2025 falls on Veterans Day, honoring military veterans while offering a chance to fish during the late fall season.

This period is particularly good for:

• Steelhead fishing in Great Lakes tributaries
• Late-season bass in larger lakes
• Pike and musky in lakes and rivers
• Fall trout in streams and rivers

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos noted that the Veterans Day Free Fishing Day has special significance: “We thank all of New York’s veterans for their service to our county and hope that the upcoming free fishing day provides an opportunity to spend time with family and friends or even the chance to introduce someone new to the sport.”

Regulations That Still Apply During Free Fishing Days

While the fishing license requirement is waived during Free Fishing Days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. This is crucial to understand for anyone planning to take advantage of these special days.

Regulations that still apply include:

• Season dates for various species
• Size limits for keeping fish
• Daily catch limits
• Equipment restrictions
• Method restrictions (prohibited methods like snagging)
• Special regulations for specific water bodies

Before heading out, it’s advisable to review the current New York State Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide, which contains comprehensive information about:

• Open seasons for various species
• Minimum size requirements
• Daily catch limits
• Method restrictions
• Special regulations for specific waters

The DEC also offers the HuntFishNY mobile app, which provides on-the-go access to regulations, likely fish species, and stocking information for specific waterbodies.

Best Locations for Free Fishing Days in New York

New York State offers remarkable fishing diversity, from urban ponds to wilderness lakes and streams. Here are some top locations to consider for your Free Fishing Day adventures, organized by region.

New York City and Long Island

Contrary to what many might expect, New York City and Long Island offer excellent freshwater fishing opportunities in addition to their renowned saltwater fishing.

New York City Waters

New York City provides surprising freshwater fishing opportunities right in the heart of urban areas:

• Central Park Lake – Offers bass, carp, and panfish fishing
• Prospect Park Lake – Home to largemouth bass, carp, and panfish
• Harlem Meer – Good for bass, carp, and panfish
• Van Cortlandt Park Lake – Offers bass and panfish fishing
• Kissena Park Lake – Known for bass and panfish

The city parks system contains numerous lakes and ponds where the public can enjoy shore fishing access. On June 28, 2025, a special Hudson River Fishing Clinic will be held at West Harlem Piers Park from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering catch-and-release fishing with gear provided.

For NYC anglers, it’s important to note that special regulations apply to freshwater fishing in the city:

• All freshwater fishing is catch-and-release only
• Hooks must be barbless
• Weights under one-half ounce must be lead-free

Long Island Freshwater

Though famous for its saltwater fishing, Long Island boasts “outstanding freshwater fishing opportunities in more than 500 lakes and ponds and over 30 miles of streams.” Some top locations include:

• Lake Ronkonkoma – The largest freshwater lake on Long Island
• Argyle Lake – Good for bass, carp, and panfish
• Belmont Lake State Park – Stocked with trout and contains bass and panfish
• Hempstead Lake State Park – Features multiple lakes with varied fishing
• Upper and Lower Twin Ponds – Good for trout, bass, and panfish

The DEC’s I FISH NY – NYC Fishing Guide provides detailed information about both freshwater and saltwater fishing locations around New York City.

Hudson Valley and Catskills

The Hudson Valley and Catskills regions are steeped in American fly fishing tradition and offer some of the state’s most renowned fishing waters.

Hudson River

The Hudson River itself provides diverse fishing opportunities from its headwaters in the Adirondacks to New York Harbor:

• Upper Hudson – Excellent smallmouth bass and trout fishing
• Mid-Hudson – Bass, striped bass (during runs), and diverse other species
• Lower Hudson – Striped bass, white perch, and various other species

Catskill Streams

The Catskills are the birthplace of American fly fishing and continue to offer exceptional trout fishing:

• Beaverkill River – Historic trout stream with excellent accessibility
• Willowemoc Creek – Classic trout water with special regulations sections
• Esopus Creek – Premier rainbow trout fishery
• Delaware River and its East and West Branches – Blue-ribbon trout fishing
• Neversink River – Challenging but rewarding trout fishing

Central New York and Finger Lakes

Central New York offers some of the state’s most diverse fishing opportunities, from the famous Finger Lakes to notable rivers and smaller water bodies.

Finger Lakes Region

Four of New York’s renowned Finger Lakes (Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles, and Otisco) lie within the Central New York region. These deep, glacially formed lakes provide exceptional two-story fisheries, containing both coldwater species like trout and Atlantic salmon and warmwater species like bass.

Top Finger Lakes fishing locations include:

• Cayuga Lake – The longest of the Finger Lakes, offering diverse fishing for lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon, bass, and panfish
• Owasco Lake – Known for its lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and Atlantic salmon fishing
• Skaneateles Lake – One of the cleanest lakes in the country, providing excellent fishing for rainbow trout, lake trout, and bass
• Otisco Lake – Good for tiger musky, walleye, bass, and panfish

The Finger Lakes have produced eight New York State fishing records and two world records, demonstrating the quality of fishing available.

Other Central New York Waters

Beyond the Finger Lakes, Central New York boasts numerous productive fishing waters, including:

• Oneida Lake – Famous for its walleye, bass, and panfish populations
• Whitney Point Reservoir – Offering diverse fishing opportunities
• Salmon River – World-famous for its salmon and steelhead runs
• Oswego River – Providing excellent fishing for multiple species
• Tioughnioga River – Known for both warmwater and coldwater species
• Chittenango Creek – Offering quality trout fishing

Adirondack Region

The Adirondack Park encompasses 6 million acres of public and private land, including more than 3,000 lakes and ponds and 30,000 miles of rivers and streams. This wilderness paradise offers some of the most pristine fishing opportunities in the eastern United States.

Top Adirondack fishing locations include:

• Lake Champlain – Offering world-class bass, pike, and salmon fishing
• Lake George – Known for its lake trout, salmon, and bass
• Saranac Lake Chain – Three connected lakes offering diverse fishing
• St. Regis Canoe Area – Remote ponds accessible by portage, many containing native brook trout
• Ausable River – Premier trout stream with trophy brown trout
• West Canada Creek – Excellent trout fishing with special regulations sections
• Raquette River – Long, diverse river offering multiple species

Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River

New York’s Great Lakes waters include Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, the Niagara River, and the St. Lawrence River, offering world-class fishing opportunities.

These waters have produced fourteen of New York’s state record fish, including a 41 lb. 8 oz. lake trout from Lake Erie, a 33 lb. 7 oz. Coho Salmon from Lake Ontario, a 47 lb. 13 oz. Chinook Salmon from the Salmon River, and a monster 69 lb. 15 oz. musky from the St. Lawrence River.

Top Great Lakes region fishing locations include:

• Lake Ontario tributaries (Salmon River, Oswego River, Oak Orchard Creek) – World-renowned for salmon and steelhead runs
• Niagara River – Both upper and lower sections offer excellent fishing for multiple species
• St. Lawrence River – Famous for musky, bass, and northern pike
• Eastern Lake Erie and tributaries – Excellent for walleye, bass, and steelhead

Tips for Making the Most of Free Fishing Days

Planning Your Free Fishing Day

When preparing for a Free Fishing Day outing, consider these practical tips:

1. Research your destination – Use the DEC’s informational resources to find appropriate fishing locations based on your experience level and target species. Check for any special regulations or access information.
2. Check weather conditions – Weather can significantly impact fishing success and safety. Pay special attention to ice conditions in winter and potential storms in other seasons.
3. Prepare appropriate gear – Different waters and species require different equipment. Basic gear for beginners should include a rod and reel, line, hooks, sinkers, bobbers, and bait or lures appropriate for your target species.
4. Bring essential accessories – Don’t forget items like sunscreen, insect repellent, drinking water, snacks, a first aid kit, and appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions.
5. Consider attending organized events – Many Free Fishing Days coincide with special events, such as the Hudson River Fishing Clinic scheduled for June 28, 2025. These events often provide equipment and instruction.
6. Review regulations – While the license requirement is waived, all other fishing regulations still apply. Review the latest regulations for your chosen waterbody through the DEC website or the HuntFishNY mobile app.

Gear and Equipment Resources

If you don’t own fishing equipment, several programs make gear accessible:

Fishing Rod Loaner Program

The DEC has partnered with libraries across New York State to provide a free fishing rod lending program. Similar to borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod, making it easy to try fishing without purchasing equipment.

For example, the Northern Onondaga Public Library in Brewerton offers fishing rods for one-week loans with one auto-renewal, providing up to two weeks of use. Their rods include the reel, a sinker, three bobbers, two hooks, and instructions on how to cast.

To find participating libraries near you, visit the DEC’s Rod Loaner Program page.

Basic Gear for Beginners

If you’re purchasing your own gear, here’s a basic starter kit for freshwater fishing:

• Rod and reel combo – A 6-6.5 foot medium-action spinning rod with matching reel is versatile for beginners
• Fishing line – 8-10 pound test monofilament line is a good all-around choice
• Hooks – Various sizes (size 6-10 for panfish, 1/0-3/0 for bass)
• Sinkers – Split-shot weights in various sizes
• Bobbers – Slip bobbers or fixed bobbers to indicate strikes
• Bait – Live bait like worms or artificial lures like spinners

Many sporting goods stores offer affordable starter kits with these basic components.

Fishing Techniques for Beginners

For those new to fishing, here are some simple techniques to get started:

Bobber Fishing

Bobber fishing is one of the simplest and most effective methods for beginners:

1. Attach a hook to your line
2. Add a small split-shot weight about 6-12 inches above the hook
3. Attach a bobber 1-3 feet above the weight (depth depends on where fish are located)
4. Bait your hook with a worm, minnow, or other bait
5. Cast to your target area and watch the bobber for movement indicating a bite

This method works well for panfish like bluegill, sunfish, and crappie, as well as bass and other species.

Basic Lure Fishing

Using artificial lures like spinners or spoons:

1. Tie the lure directly to your line
2. Cast to your target area
3. Retrieve at various speeds, sometimes pausing to let the lure sink
4. Experiment with different retrieval speeds and patterns

This method is effective for active predatory fish like bass, pike, and trout.

Common Fish Species in New York Waters

New York’s diverse waterways support a wide variety of fish species. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular species you might encounter during Free Fishing Days:

Freshwater Species

Trout and Salmon

• Brook Trout – New York’s official state fish, found in cold, clear streams and ponds
• Brown Trout – Common in streams, rivers, and lakes statewide
• Rainbow Trout – Popular in stocked waters and Great Lakes tributaries
• Lake Trout – Found in deep, cold lakes throughout the state
• Atlantic Salmon – Present in Lake Ontario, Lake Champlain, and certain tributary streams
• Chinook Salmon – Common in Lake Ontario and tributaries during fall spawning runs
• Coho Salmon – Found in Lake Ontario and tributaries

Bass and Panfish

• Largemouth Bass – Widely distributed in lakes, ponds, and slow rivers
• Smallmouth Bass – Common in clearer lakes and faster-moving rivers
• Bluegill – Abundant in ponds and lakes statewide
• Pumpkinseed – Common in vegetated areas of lakes and ponds
• Black Crappie – Popular in vegetated lakes and backwaters
• Yellow Perch – Found in lakes, ponds, and rivers throughout New York

Predatory Species

• Muskellunge – Trophy fish found in the St. Lawrence River, western New York waters, and select lakes
• Northern Pike – Common in lakes and rivers statewide, particularly in Adirondack waters
• Tiger Musky – A hybrid stocked in certain New York waters
• Chain Pickerel – Found in vegetated waters throughout the state
• Walleye – Popular in larger lakes and rivers

Seasonal Fishing Calendar

Different species are more active during different times of the year. Here’s a general seasonal guide:

Season	Prime Species	Best Techniques
Winter (Dec-Mar)	Yellow perch, northern pike, walleye, trout (through ice)	Ice fishing, slow jigging
Spring (Apr-Jun)	Trout, crappie, sunfish, bass (after season opens)	Live bait, small lures, fly fishing
Summer (Jul-Aug)	Bass, sunfish, catfish, northern pike	Early morning/evening fishing, deep water techniques
Fall (Sep-Nov)	Salmon, trout, bass, pike, musky	Trolling, casting to structure, fly fishing

Educational Resources and Programs

New York State offers numerous educational resources to help anglers of all experience levels improve their skills and knowledge.

I FISH NY Program

The I FISH NY program was developed by the NYSDEC to increase fishing participation in New York State. The program aims to:

• Increase public awareness of fishing opportunities in New York
• Provide information on fishing techniques and skills
• Increase knowledge of fish and aquatic resources
• Improve fishing opportunities in suburban and urban areas

The program offers educational resources for teachers and students, with lesson plans on topics such as food webs, freshwater classification, fish form and function, and fish identification. These resources are aligned with the New York State Common Core Standards and are suitable for grades 3-12.

For more information, visit the I FISH NY program page.

Free Learn to Fish Clinics

The DEC and various partner organizations conduct free Learn to Fish clinics throughout the state. These instructor-led clinics help new anglers become familiar with fishing basics and provide hands-on experience. During these clinics, no freshwater fishing license is required, though all other regulations remain in effect.

Participating in a Learn to Fish clinic offers benefits beyond just learning to cast a line. Clinics often cover:

• Fish identification
• Fishing equipment and techniques
• Fisheries management
• Angling ethics
• Aquatic ecology
• Conservation practices

These events are typically held throughout the fishing season, with many concentrated around Free Fishing Days. Check the DEC’s calendar of events for upcoming clinics.

Online Resources and Videos

The DEC provides numerous online resources for anglers, including instructional videos. For example, the “Getting Started Fishing in NYC – Freshwater” video covers:

• Where to catch fish in NYC
• Fishing regulations and licenses
• Types of fish that can be caught
• Gear and how to set up a fishing rod
• Bait selection and fishing techniques
• How to catch and handle fish responsibly

These resources are particularly valuable for beginners planning to take advantage of Free Fishing Days.

Understanding Normal Fishing License Requirements

Outside of Free Fishing Days, most people fishing in New York need a valid New York State fishing license. Understanding these requirements helps anglers comply with regulations during the rest of the year.

Who Needs a Fishing License?

In New York State, a fishing license is required for:

• Anyone 16 years of age or older
• Fishing for freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups
• Catching frog species by spearing, catching with hands, or using a club or hook
• Collecting freshwater baitfish for personal use

Children under 16 years old can fish without a license year-round.

License Exemptions

You do not need a fishing license if you are:

• Fishing on a licensed fishing preserve
• Fishing during designated Free Fishing Days
• Fishing at a free learn to fish clinic
• A resident landowner primarily engaged in farming (including lessees and members of their immediate family) when fishing on farm lands they occupy

For saltwater fishing, including in the Hudson River below the Governor Malcolm Wilson Tappan Zee Bridge, anglers must enroll in the free Recreational Marine Fishing Registry rather than obtaining a freshwater license.

Types of Fishing Licenses

New York offers several types of fishing licenses to meet different needs:

General Fishing Licenses

• Annual License – Valid for one full year (365 days) from the date of purchase or renewal
• Resident (ages 16-69): $25
• Resident (ages 70+): $5
• Non-resident: $50
• 7-day License
• Resident: $12
• Non-resident: $28
• 1-day License
• Resident: $5
• Non-resident: $10

Free and Reduced-Fee Licenses

New York offers free or reduced-fee annual fishing licenses for qualifying individuals, including:

• Military veterans with disabilities
• Active-duty military members stationed in New York
• Native Americans living on reservation land
• Legally blind individuals
• Other qualifying groups

Lifetime Licenses

New York residents can purchase lifetime fishing licenses, allowing them to fish for life without needing to renew annually.

For more detailed information about fishing licenses, visit the TeenFish New York Fishing License Guide.

Where to Get a Fishing License

There are three ways to obtain a fishing license in New York:

1. Visit an official License Issuing Agent (sporting goods stores, municipal offices)
2. Order over the phone (866-933-2257)
3. Order online through the DEC website

Note that License Issuing Agents may charge a $1 print fee, while online or phone transactions may include a $2 printing/mailing fee unless you choose to have your license emailed to you.

Being a Responsible Angler

Whether fishing on Free Fishing Days or with a license, practicing responsible angling helps protect New York’s aquatic resources for future generations.

Conservation Practices

Responsible anglers can contribute to conservation efforts by:

• Practicing catch and release when appropriate, especially for species with limited populations
• Using barbless hooks (required for freshwater fishing in NYC)
• Properly handling fish to minimize stress and injury
• Using lead-free fishing weights, especially those under one-half ounce
• Properly disposing of fishing line and other tackle to protect wildlife
• Respecting size and catch limits
• Reporting any pollution or environmental concerns to authorities

Preventing the Spread of Invasive Species

Invasive species threaten New York’s aquatic ecosystems. Anglers can help prevent their spread by:

• Cleaning all fishing gear, boats, trailers, and equipment between water bodies
• Draining live wells, bilge, and other water-containing devices before leaving a fishing site
• Drying equipment completely before using it in another waterbody
• Never releasing baitfish into a body of water
• Never moving fish from one body of water to another

For more information on preventing the spread of invasive species, visit the Protect Our Waters page.

Conclusion

Free Fishing Days in New York for 2025 offer excellent opportunities for everyone to experience the state’s diverse fishing resources without the need for a license. The four designated periods-February 15-16, June 28-29, September 27, and November 11-provide seasonal variety and different fishing experiences throughout the year.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to try fishing for the first time, an experienced angler introducing friends or family to the sport, or someone reconnecting with fishing after time away, these days provide the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy New York’s waters. From urban ponds in New York City to remote Adirondack lakes, from the Great Lakes to farm ponds, New York offers fishing opportunities for every preference and skill level.

Remember that while the license requirement is waived on Free Fishing Days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. Take time to familiarize yourself with the rules for your chosen fishing location and target species. And if you don’t have fishing equipment, consider taking advantage of the fishing rod loaner programs available through many public libraries across the state.

As DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar noted, the benefits of fishing extend beyond just catching fish-being near water has positive impacts on mental health and wellness. So mark these Free Fishing Days on your calendar, gather your family and friends, and take advantage of these special opportunities to experience the joy of fishing in New York’s abundant waters.

For more comprehensive fishing information across the United States, visit TeenFish, where you can find detailed guides for fishing in various states, including Michigan, Florida, and Pennsylvania.