New York residents and visitors may fish the state’s freshwaters without a freshwater fishing license on Wednesday, November 11, as the Department of Environmental Conservation marks Veterans Day with a statewide Free Fishing Day.
The license waiver lasts all day and applies statewide. DEC says every other freshwater fishing rule remains in effect, including seasons, size limits, daily catch limits and any water-specific restrictions. Anglers should review the current regulations before heading out.
The department presents Free Fishing Days as an opportunity for first-time anglers to try the sport, for former anglers to return, or for experienced anglers to introduce a friend or family member to fishing. Anyone who plans to keep fishing after Wednesday will need the license normally required for that activity.
DEC’s HuntFishNY mobile app includes a Tackle Box feature that can help users find fishing waters, boat launches and parking. It also provides waterbody information, likely fish species, stocking details and applicable freshwater regulations.
