2025 NY Free Fishing Days Calendar | License Exemptions & Real-Time Regulation Alerts

New York State offers six designated free fishing days in 2025, allowing anyone to fish without a license while still following standard fishing regulations. These special opportunities include February 15-16 (President’s Day weekend), June 28-29 (Summer Free Fishing Weekend), September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). While license requirements are waived during these periods, all anglers must still adhere to size limits, catch restrictions, and seasonal rules. The program aims to introduce newcomers to fishing, promote outdoor recreation, and showcase New York’s diverse aquatic resources.

Complete 2025 Free Fishing Days Calendar

New York’s free fishing days are strategically scheduled throughout the year to showcase seasonal fishing opportunities and maximize participation.

Date	Event	Primary Fishing Opportunities
February 15-16, 2025	President’s Day Weekend	Ice fishing for perch, pike, and walleye
June 28-29, 2025	Summer Free Fishing Weekend	Bass, sunfish, and trout in lakes and streams
September 27, 2025	National Hunting and Fishing Day	Fall patterns, early salmon runs in tributaries
November 11, 2025	Veterans Day	Late-season trout, steelhead, and pike

Winter Ice Fishing Celebration (February 15-16)

The President’s Day weekend free fishing event coincides with prime ice fishing conditions across much of New York. This period typically features safe ice thickness on most northern lakes, with popular destinations including:

• Lake George: Known for lake trout, perch, and northern pike through the ice
• Chautauqua Lake: Excellent for walleye, perch, and crappie
• Oneida Lake: Premier walleye ice fishery with consistent action
• Finger Lakes: Various options for trout, pike, and panfish

Ice anglers should verify minimum safe ice thickness (4 inches for foot traffic) before venturing out and consult the NY DEC Ice Fishing Safety Guidelines for current conditions. The DEC’s ice fishing safety course is available online through their official website.

For techniques specific to New York winter fishing, visit Teenfish’s Ice Fishing Tactics Guide.

Summer Family Fishing Weekend (June 28-29)

The summer free fishing weekend provides ideal conditions for family participation, with comfortable temperatures and active fish. This period aligns with:

• Post-spawn bass becoming aggressive feeders
• Recently stocked trout still available in many waters
• Panfish moving to shallow areas for easy shore fishing
• Peak activity for channel catfish in larger rivers

The DEC enhances these opportunities through additional trout stocking at family-friendly locations. The HuntFishNY mobile app provides real-time stocking updates and fishing regulations directly to your smartphone.

For family-friendly fishing locations by region, see Teenfish’s NY Fishing Hotspots.

National Hunting and Fishing Day (September 27)

September’s free fishing day celebrates National Hunting and Fishing Day with excellent fishing opportunities during the seasonal transition to fall patterns. Key highlights include:

• Early salmon runs beginning in Lake Ontario tributaries
• Cool water temperatures increasing trout activity in streams
• Bass moving to shallower depths and feeding aggressively
• Northern pike becoming more active as vegetation begins to die back

This date features numerous educational events statewide, with instructors providing free lessons on casting, fish identification, and conservation. Connect with local events through the NY DEC Events Calendar.

For salmon fishing regulations and tributary access points, visit Teenfish’s Salmon Run Guide.

Veterans Day Tribute (November 11)

The final free fishing day of 2025 honors veterans while offering excellent late-season angling opportunities:

• Steelhead fishing in Great Lakes tributaries reaches peak activity
• Brown trout spawn creates targeting opportunities in streams
• Late-fall crappie schools concentrate in deeper structures
• Pike and muskie become particularly active before winter

Veterans and active military personnel receive additional resources on this day, including access to loaner equipment and volunteer guides through the “Hooks for Heroes” program. For program details, visit the NY DEC Veterans Resources page.

For tailored late-season fishing strategies, see Teenfish’s Fall Fishing Techniques.

License Requirements & Exemptions

Understanding New York’s fishing license system helps anglers comply with regulations beyond free fishing days.

Standard NY Fishing License Requirements

Outside free fishing days, most anglers need appropriate licenses to fish legally in New York:

License Type	Resident Fee	Non-Resident Fee	Duration
Annual	$25	$50	365 days from purchase
7-Day	$12	$28	7 consecutive days
1-Day	$5	$10	Calendar day
Senior (70+)	$5	N/A	Annual
Military Disabled	Free	Free	Annual

Licenses can be purchased through:

• The NY DEC Online Licensing Portal
• Authorized license issuing agents (sporting goods stores, municipal clerks)
• By phone at 1-866-933-2257
• The HuntFishNY mobile app

Permanent License Exemptions

Several groups remain exempt from fishing license requirements year-round:

• Children under 16 years (no documentation required)
• Native Americans fishing on reservation land
• Legally blind individuals (must carry certification of legal blindness)
• Military personnel on leave with appropriate documentation
• Residents with qualifying disabilities (with proper certification)
• Landowners/lessees fishing on their farm property (limited to freshwater)

For detailed exemption requirements, visit Teenfish’s License Exemption Guide.

Fishing Regulations That Remain in Effect

While license requirements are waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain fully enforced, including:

• Size limits: Minimum lengths for keeping fish vary by species and water body
• Creel limits: Daily catch restrictions protect fish populations
• Seasonal closures: Some species and waters have closed seasons
• Method restrictions: Regulations on tackle, bait, and fishing techniques
• Special regulations: Unique rules for specific waters

Violations can result in significant penalties starting at $250. Download the Official NY Fishing Regulations Guide for comprehensive rules.

Real-Time Fishing Regulation Alerts

New York’s fishing regulations can change rapidly based on environmental conditions, fisheries management needs, and emergency situations.

Digital Alert Systems

The DEC provides several methods for receiving real-time regulatory updates:

• HuntFishNY Mobile App: Push notifications for emergency regulation changes
• NY Fishing Hotline: Weekly recorded updates at 1-855-NYS-FISH
• Email Alerts: Subscribe through DEC’s Delivers Email System
• Twitter Updates: @NYSDECAlerts for immediate announcements

The HuntFishNY app also includes GPS-enabled features that display water-specific regulations based on your current location-particularly useful when visiting unfamiliar waters.

Time-Sensitive Regulation Changes

Several types of time-sensitive regulations may affect your fishing plans:

• Emergency Closures: Protecting vulnerable spawning populations
• Fish Consumption Advisories: Updated based on contaminant testing
• Flow Management Alerts: Dam releases affecting river fishing conditions
• Ice Safety Warnings: Real-time ice thickness reports in winter
• Harmful Algal Bloom Notices: Affecting fish health and human safety

For the most current alerts before heading out, check Teenfish’s NY Regulation Updates.

Boundary Waters Special Regulations

New York shares numerous water boundaries with other states and Canada, creating complex regulatory situations:

• Lake Erie & Lake Ontario: Shared with Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Canada
• Lake Champlain: Shared with Vermont
• Delaware River: Shared with Pennsylvania and New Jersey
• Hudson River: Tidal portions with marine regulations
• St. Lawrence River: International boundary with Canada

When fishing boundary waters, the most restrictive regulations generally apply. For specific boundary water rules, visit the DEC’s Boundary Waters Guide.

Essential Equipment & Preparation

Proper preparation maximizes enjoyment during free fishing days, especially for newcomers to the sport.

Seasonal Gear Recommendations

Equipment needs vary significantly by season in New York:

Winter Ice Fishing (February)

• Ice auger (hand or power)
• Ice safety picks worn around neck
• Tip-ups and jigging rods
• Portable shelter for weather protection
• Ice cleats for traction
• Insulated clothing layers

Summer Open Water (June)

• Medium spinning combo (6-7 foot rod, 2000-3000 size reel)
• Assorted hooks, weights, and bobbers
• Live bait container
• Small tackle box with basic lures
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Needle-nose pliers for hook removal

Fall Fishing (September-November)

• Medium-heavy rod for larger species
• Waders for stream fishing
• Polarized sunglasses for sight fishing
• Landing net for larger fish
• Rain gear for changing conditions
• Layered clothing for temperature fluctuations

For detailed gear guides tailored to New York waters, see Teenfish’s Equipment Selection Guide.

Fishing Access Points

New York maintains numerous public fishing access sites appropriate for free fishing days:

• Fishing Rights Easements: Stream sections with public access through private property
• State Parks: Many offer excellent shore fishing opportunities
• DEC Fishing Access Sites: Dedicated areas with parking and sometimes boat launches
• Municipal Parks: Local waterfront areas often permit fishing
• Public Docks & Piers: Available in many waterfront communities

The DEC’s interactive Public Fishing Rights Maps show detailed access information for streams throughout the state.

Safety Considerations

Safety should be the priority for all anglers, especially during busy free fishing days:

• Weather monitoring: Check forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions
• PFD usage: Wear life jackets when fishing from boats or in swift currents
• Buddy system: Fish with partners, especially in remote areas
• First aid kit: Carry basic supplies for hook injuries and other minor emergencies
• Communication device: Maintain cell service or carry alternative communication
• Location sharing: Inform others of your fishing location and expected return time

For specialized safety guidance including ice safety thresholds, visit Teenfish’s Fishing Safety Protocols.

Conservation & Responsible Angling

Free fishing days emphasize not only recreation but also conservation ethics and sustainable fishing practices.

Invasive Species Prevention

Anglers play a critical role in preventing the spread of harmful invasive species in New York waters:

• Clean all equipment before leaving a fishing site
• Drain all water from boats, livewells, and equipment
• Dry everything thoroughly before using in different waters
• Disinfect when possible, especially felt-soled wading boots
• Never release baitfish into waters they didn’t come from
• Report sightings of suspected invasive species through the iMapInvasives NY platform

Key invasive species to watch for include round goby, northern snakehead, and hydrilla. Learn to identify invasive species at New York’s Invasive Species Information.

Catch-and-Release Best Practices

Proper catch-and-release techniques significantly improve fish survival rates:

• Use barbless hooks or crimp barbs down
• Minimize air exposure to 30 seconds or less
• Keep fish in the water when removing hooks
• Use wet hands when handling fish to protect slime coating
• Cut the line if a fish is deeply hooked rather than causing additional injury
• Avoid fishing in extremely warm water conditions when fish are stressed

For species-specific handling techniques, visit Teenfish’s Catch & Release Guide.

Citizen Science Opportunities

Free fishing days provide excellent opportunities to contribute to fisheries science:

• Angler Diary Program: Record catch data for DEC analysis
• Tag Reporting: Report any tagged fish caught with location information
• Fishing for the Future: Volunteer program for habitat improvement
• Water Quality Monitoring: Citizen testing programs in many watersheds

Register for citizen science initiatives through the NY DEC Citizen Science Portal.

Regional Fishing Highlights

New York’s diverse regions offer distinctly different fishing experiences during free fishing days.

Adirondack Region

The Adirondack Park contains over 3,000 lakes and ponds plus countless miles of streams:

• Lake Champlain: Outstanding for bass, pike, and lake trout
• Saranac Lake Chain: Accessible multi-species fishery
• West Branch Ausable River: Premier trout stream with special regulations
• Lake George: Clear waters offering excellent fishing for lake trout and bass

For detailed Adirondack fishing information, visit Teenfish’s Adirondack Fishing Guide.

Catskills Region

Known as the birthplace of American fly fishing, the Catskills offer legendary trout waters:

• Delaware River System: World-class wild trout fishery
• Esopus Creek: Famous for technical fly fishing opportunities
• Beaverkill River: Historic trout stream with special regulations sections
• Neversink River: Pristine waters with wild brown trout

For Catskill-specific techniques and access points, see Teenfish’s Catskill Waters Guide.

Finger Lakes & Western New York

This region features both the productive Finger Lakes and Great Lakes tributaries:

• Cayuga Lake: Excellent for trout, salmon, bass, and panfish
• Seneca Lake: Deep water opportunities for lake trout and landlocked salmon
• Lake Erie & Tributaries: World-class walleye and steelhead fishing
• Cattaraugus Creek: Premier steelhead stream in fall and winter

For Finger Lakes fishing techniques, visit Teenfish’s Finger Lakes Strategies.

NYC and Long Island Region

Even urban anglers can find excellent opportunities during free fishing days:

• Central Park Lake: Surprisingly good bass and panfish fishing
• Prospect Park Lake: Urban fishing for multiple species
• Freshwater Ponds of Long Island: Bass and panfish opportunities
• Marine District Boundary Waters: Check regulations for saltwater boundaries

For urban fishing locations, see Teenfish’s Urban Angling Guide.

Educational Resources & Community Support

Free fishing days are supported by extensive educational resources to help newcomers succeed.

Free Fishing Day Clinics

The DEC coordinates instructional programs during free fishing days:

• Casting Instruction: Learn fundamental casting techniques
• Fishing Workshops: Species-specific tactics and approaches
• Equipment Seminars: Selection and maintenance guidance
• Conservation Education: Understanding sustainable fishing practices

Find scheduled clinics through the DEC’s I FISH NY Program.

Loaner Equipment Programs

Several options exist for borrowing fishing equipment during free fishing days:

• DEC Tackle Loaner Program: Available at select DEC offices
• Public Library Fishing Rod Program: Many libraries offer rod checkout
• State Park Loaner Equipment: Available at participating parks
• Community Organization Loans: Through fishing clubs and conservation groups

For loaner equipment locations, visit Teenfish’s Equipment Access Guide.

Fishing Mentors Network

Connect with experienced anglers willing to provide guidance:

• FYZED Youth Program: Pairing young anglers with experienced mentors
• Veterans Fishing Network: Special support for military veterans
• Adaptive Fishing Partners: Assistance for anglers with disabilities
• Women’s Fishing Collectives: Supportive learning environments

To connect with a fishing mentor, contact the DEC’s Regional Offices.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Free Fishing Days

New York’s 2025 Free Fishing Days provide perfect opportunities to experience the state’s world-class fishing resources without the barrier of license requirements. Whether you’re introducing children to their first fishing experience, returning to the sport after years away, or simply enjoying a cost-free fishing opportunity, these special days offer something for every angler.

Remember that while license requirements are waived, all other fishing regulations remain in effect to protect New York’s aquatic resources for future generations. By combining your participation with conservation awareness, you contribute to the long-term health of these valuable ecosystems.

For year-round fishing information, regulations, and resources, visit Teenfish and the New York Department of Environmental Conservation Fishing Page.