Free Fishing Day - Statewide

Free Fishing Day - Statewide will allow anglers to fish in New York state freshwater without a freshwater fishing license during designated days. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has set free fishing dates for Saturday, June 26 and Sunday, June 27, 2026, with the activity listed as running all day statewide. DEC says these dates are intended for anyone to try fishing for the first time, return after a break, or take friends and family. Even though no license is required, all freshwater fishing regulations still apply, so participants are directed to review the Freshwater Fishing Regulations before going out. DEC also advises using the Tackle Box feature in its HuntFishNY mobile app to find fishing locations, including boat launches and parking areas, along with regulations, likely fish species and stocking information for each waterbody.