This weekend, fish free in New York

New York residents and visitors may fish for free without a fishing license this weekend, June 29 to 30, in any of the state's 7,500 lakes and ponds or 50,000 miles of rivers and streams during the weekend.

Saltwater anglers may also fish in marine waters or for migratory marine fish species without enrolling in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.

"Getting more people involved in the sport of fishing is an important component of the Governor Cuomo's NY's Open for Hunting and Fishing Initiative," said state Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens. "This is the perfect time to introduce someone to the sport of fishing or invite a friend or relative from out of state to enjoy the great fishing the state has to offer."

NY's Open for Hunting and Fishing initiative streamlines the process for hunting and fishing licensing. It also reduces license fees, improves fishing access sites, stocks up to 900,000 pounds of fish raised at state hatcheries, and increases hunting opportunities in various regions.

To further encourage fishing in New York State, Cuomo signed legislation last year expanding the opportunity for free fishing clinics, which allow New Yorkers to experience fishing for the first time.

The Free Fishing Days program began in 1991. New York's sport fishing industry generates an estimated $1.8 billion in economic activity annually, supporting nearly 17,000 jobs.

For a listing of free fishing events, visit www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html.