PORT CHESTER, NY (June 25, 2026) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State on June 27–28, 2026. During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing across the state’s waters.
“With summer officially here, the timing of these free fishing days couldn’t be better,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “New York is home to thousands of angling opportunities across our abundant freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers. Fishing is an affordable and rewarding pastime and I encourage everyone to get outside and visit New York’s waters during this Free Fishing Weekend.”
The Free Fishing Days program, initiated in 1991, allows New Yorkers to experience freshwater fishing at no cost, encouraging people to consider purchasing a New York State Fishing License and supporting conservation efforts.
The event supports Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, which promotes physical and mental well-being by encouraging families to disconnect from digital devices and explore outdoor activities. The initiative includes the Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge, offering 50 activities for youth to complete by age 19.
DEC also offers “learn to fish” opportunities through free fishing clinics and a Fishing Rod Lending Program in libraries statewide. Participants should remember that all fishing regulations still apply during the free fishing days, and anglers over 16 need a valid fishing license on other days.
The New York State Department of Health provides guidelines on fish consumption safety by location, available on their website. Additional Free Fishing Days in 2026 include September 26 and November 11.
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.
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