NewYork announces free fishing day on Nov. 11
ALBANY, N.Y. » Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that New York residents and non-residents can fish for free without a license on Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11. New York’s Free Fishing Days encourage more people to get outdoors and enjoy the state’s world-class fishing opportunities.
“The Veterans Day Free Fishing Day is just one way to acknowledge the contributions of our veterans while offering the opportunity to enjoy some of the best fishing spots in the nation, right here in the Empire State,” Cuomo said.
“I encourage everyone from expert anglers to beginners to take advantage of this Free Fishing Day and enjoy everything New York has to offer,” Cuomo added.
The Free Fishing Days program is administered by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The free fishing days program began in 1991, to give people who might not fish a chance to try the sport at no cost, introduce people to a new hobby, and encourage people to support the sport by purchasing a New York State fishing license.
“Free fishing on Veterans Day recognizes the service of men and women in our armed forces and is a great opportunity for experienced anglers to introduce friends and relatives to the sport. As we all work to prevent the spread of COVID-19, more New Yorkers are heading outdoors in search of local recreational activities. Being near the water, enjoying some of the state’s worldclass fisheries, is an excellent way to unwind and learn more about the sport of fishing,” Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos stated.
Free Fishing Day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. When not participating in Free Fishing Days, anyone 16 years of age and older must have a current State fishing license to fish inNew York. Fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.
Fishing and hunting in New York build a sense of stewardship of fish and wildlife resources and habitats, provide an opportunity for experienced hunters and anglers to share their knowledge with others, and promote participation in hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting through the mentoring of young hunters and anglers. New York’s hunters and anglers contribute an estimated $4.9 billion to the economy in spending, which supports more than 56,000 jobs and $623 million in state and local taxes.
New York State continues to encourage people to engage in responsible recreation during the State’s ongoing response to COVID-19. This fall, anglers should be mindful in taking precautions to stop the spread of COVID-19 while enjoying the outstanding fishing opportunities throughout the state. DEC is placing signage at popular locations reminding anglers to be SMART when fishing this year:
• Socially distance at least six feet apart;
• Mask - Wear one when you cannot maintain social distancing, especially in parking lots and along footpaths;
• Avoid sharing gear when possible;
• Respect your fellow anglers and the resource by providing space and practicing ethical angling; and
• Take out what you bring inor place trash in receptacles.
Anglers fishing from a boat should make sure it’s large enough so persons on board are at least six feet apart from one another.