BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Attention all you anglers, on Saturday, September 28 you can fish for free without a license across the state of New York. It's all part of National Hunting and Fishing Day, to promote outdoor activities statewide.
"Fishing and hunting are longstanding traditions in New York, with some of the best opportunities anywhere, and our state's active sporting community is a very important partner in ongoing conservation efforts," Governor Cuomo said. "This Saturday, I encourage new and experienced anglers and hunters to get out and enjoy nature with family and friends by partaking in some of the events being held or enjoying time afield."
Before you cast your first line, you're going to want to hear these tips from fishing expert Scott Gauld:
Equipment
- A good spinning rod and reel will handle most local waters
- Bait casters and fly fishing are a little more technical
- A good line is essential and local tackle shops and stores can provide guidance in choosing correct tackle for the species
- Look for great deals at fishing and outdoor expos in the winter and spring
- Also look for tackle swaps or sales for super deals
Places
- The first thing you should do is check out the interactive map created by the state Department of Environmental Conservation for spots to reel in fish
- There are numerous parks with access along the Upper Niagara River which allow for fishing
- Look for several ponds in county parks that have access
- Check out the list of fishing hot spots in Erie County
Catches
- Bass are caught almost everywhere along the Upper Niagara River
- Walleye and perch can be found on Lake Erie and in some river areas
- Salmon and trout are found in the Lower Niagara River
- Trout in almost all of the Great Lakes tributaries
- Panfish can be found in local ponds
Safety
- Wear your lifejacket or Personal Flotation Device (PFD), especially for kids
- Have all U.S. Coast Guard equipment on-board at all times
- Watch the weather!
- Don't enter unknown water from shore or boat in restricted or dangerous areas
According to the Governor's Office, hunting and fishing contribute more than $4.9 billion to New York's economy and support 56,000 jobs.
State-hosted events to celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day on Sept. 28, include:
- Open House and Family Day at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery [dec.ny.gov] from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring hatchery tours, behind-the-scenes tours of the hatchery's inner workings, a viewing deck that will allow people to see migrating salmon, a laser shooting range, fishing demonstrations, and educational opportunities;
- National Hunting and Fishing Day is a designated free fishing day [dec.ny.gov] in New York, which means anyone can fish the state's freshwaters and no fishing license is required;
- DEC's Youth Pheasant Hunt [dec.ny.gov] occurs on Sept. 28 and 29 in northern and eastern parts of New York; and
- DEC and OPRHP are hosting the inaugural Women's Fishing Expo at Belmont Lake State Park [dec.ny.gov] on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., providing hands-on instruction and experiential learning in a fun and supportive environment.
