The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the 2026 dates for Free Freshwater Fishing Days, when the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived statewide. Anglers can fish for free on June 27–28, September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day).

Now in place since 1991, DEC’s Free Fishing Days program is designed to introduce new anglers to freshwater fishing while encouraging families and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy New York’s lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers. DEC notes that the program also supports conservation efforts by helping grow future license holders.

DEC offers a range of resources for new anglers, including the I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing, instructional videos, “Places to Fish” planning tools, and the HuntFishNY mobile app, which provides regulations, access points, and stocking information in a map-based format. Additional opportunities include free, DEC-approved “learn to fish” clinics and a Fishing Rod Lending Program available at more than 80 libraries statewide.

While a license is not required on Free Fishing Days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. Outside of these dates, anglers age 16 and older must possess a valid New York State fishing license.