New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday encouraged New Yorkers to take advantage of the state’s first free fishing weekend of 2022, on February 19 and 20, when freshwater anglers can fish for free without a license.
Ice fishing beginners are encouraged to unload the Ice Fishing Chapter from the beginners guide to freshwater fishing I FISH NY de DEC for information on how to get started. You can find additional information, including a list of waters where ice fishing is allowed, on the DEC ice fishing website.
Recent cold weather has improved ice conditions throughout the state. DEC reminds those venturing out onto the ice that four inches or more of solid ice is considered safe for walking into bodies of water. Ice fishermen should be aware that ice thickness can vary in different bodies of water and even in the same body of water. Anglers should be especially careful around moving water areas and around docks and houses where bubblers can be installed to reduce ice buildup. The presence of footprints or snowmobile tracks in the ice should not be considered evidence of safe ice conditions.
People are strongly advised to check ice conditions and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk. Before testing ice thickness with an auger or spatula, visit the DEC website for more information. https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/119684.html.
New York’s Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give people who may not fish the opportunity to try the rewarding sport at no cost, introduce them to a new hobby, and encourage people to support the stewardship of New York’s fisheries. fresh water from the state buying a New York State fishing license.
The February Free Fishing Days are the first of several planned for 2022. Additional Free Fishing Days include June 25 and 26, September 24 (National Fish and Game Day), and November 11 (National Fish and Game Day). the veterans). During Free Fishing Days, residents and visitors can fish for free in any of the state’s 7,500 lakes and ponds or 70,000 miles of rivers and streams. All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply.
Fishing and hunting in New York creates a sense of stewardship of fish and wildlife resources and habitats, provides an opportunity for experienced hunters and anglers to share their knowledge with others, and promotes participation in hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting through the mentoring of young hunters and fishermen. New York’s hunters and fishermen contribute approximately $4.9 billion to the economy in spending, supporting more than 56,000 jobs and $623 million in state and local taxes.
To look at the dates of the fishing days free to visit this website.
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