New York State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF-Sag Harbor) announced that New York residents and visitors may fish for free without a fishing license in any of the state’s 7,500 lakes and ponds or 50,000 miles of rivers and streams during the weekend of June 28-29 or at any of the free fishing events to be held throughout the State this summer. Saltwater anglers may also fish in marine waters or for migratory marine fish species without enrolling in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry from June 28-29.

Free Fishing Days are part of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative, an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the State. This initiative includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees and improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State.

The Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to allow all people the opportunity to sample the incredible fishing New York State has to offer. It has since been modified to allow organizations or groups to conduct individual free fishing events that meet DEC’s guidelines, ensuring that the events are educational in focus. Participants in these events do not need a license to fish and are not required to enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.

For a listing of all free fishing events, visit DEC’s website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27123.html. Currently there are more than 20 DEC free fishing events designated for 2014; however, the public is advised to check back regularly as new events are regularly added to the list. Organizations or groups interested in conducting an event can find instructions and an application form on DEC’s website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/89811.html. For a listing of fishing programs at State Parks, including instructional programs and clinics, visit http://nysparks.com/events/.

Anglers are reminded that although a fishing license is not required during the free fishing day weekend, or free fishing events, all other fishing regulations remain in effect.