The New York State Governor is encouraging New Yorkers to take advantage of the state’s first Free Fishing Weekend of 2022 on February 19 and 20, when freshwater anglers are permitted to fish for free without a license.

Free Fishing Days

During Free Fishing Days/Weekends, anyone can fish the fresh waters of New York State and no fishing license is required! All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply.

Upcoming Free Fishing Dates

• February 19-20, 2022 (See our Learn to Ice Fish web page for great tips and Ice Fishing web page for places to go)
• June 25-26, 2022
• September 24, 2022
• November 11, 2022

Ideas for Free Fishing Days

• Try fishing for the first time.
• Haven’t fished in a while? Remember the joy of catching a fish again for free!
• Become an ambassador to the sport; take a friend fishing for the first time.
• Invite a friend to New York to fish.
• Take a spouse or significant other fishing.
• Take the family fishing…and don’t forget the grandparents!