a family fishing by the lake on a sunny day

NYS Free Fishing Days

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NYS Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days

Free fishing days offer New York State residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* to fish without a freshwater fishing license (*Kids under 16 can always fish for free!).

2026 Free Fishing Days Schedule

  • February 14-15 (President's Day Weekend)
  • June 27-28
  • September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
  • November 11 (Veterans Day)

These days offer the perfect opportunity to try out fishing for the first time, to get back into the sport, or to take a friend or the whole family along to fish! Even though a license is not needed, all other fishing regulations apply.

Jun. 27

NYS Free Fishing Days

New York State’s Free Fishing Days let residents and non-residents fish without a license. It’s a great chance to try fishing, reconnect with the sport, or bring friends and family for a fun day outdoors. Regular fishing rules still apply!

Information
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Fishing, 
Leisure, 
Ice Fishing
captive_portal dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/learn-to-fish
Upcoming Dates
calendar_month Feb. 14, 2026 -  All day
calendar_month Feb. 15, 2026 -  All day
calendar_month Jun. 27, 2026 -  All day
calendar_month Jun. 28, 2026 -  All day
calendar_month Sep. 26, 2026 -  All day
calendar_month Nov. 11, 2026 -  All day
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