The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) I FISH NY program, in cooperation with New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), will offer a Free Fishing Clinic on Saturday, August 6 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at McDonald Pond in Hempstead Lake State Park. The event is open to the public. The event is free, however an OPRHP $8.00 parking fee is in effect. Parking is free with a valid Empire Pass.
“We encourage families and individuals to pick up their fishing rods and enjoy the freshwater resources Long Island has to offer,” DEC Regional Director Carrie Meek Gallagher said. “The free fishing clinics offer opportunities for beginners and experienced fishermen to get outside and take advantage of the sunny days and the rewarding fishing experience.”
Free loaner fishing rods and bait will be supplied by I FISH NY with instruction in fishing, fishing ethics, safety and techniques by DEC staff. The event will begin promptly at 10 a.m. with basic “how to” fishing instruction and fish identification. A brief discussion on the challenges and techniques of fishing will be included. This event is geared toward ages 10 and up, including families, individuals, beginners and experts. No saltwater registry or freshwater fishing license is required for this event.
There is no pre-registration necessary. This event is weather dependent, and will have no make-up date.
Governor Cuomo’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative provides $3 million for state land access projects and $4 million for hunting and fishing infrastructure under the 2016-17 budget, including funding for more than 50 free fishing clinics across the state this year. The 2015-16 budget also created a new capital account, which, along with federal Pittman-Robertson funds, will be used to manage, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat and will improve and develop public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation. This year’s commitment builds on the previous $6 million in funding for 50 new projects to provide access to approximately 380,000 acres of existing state lands for recreation, including boat launches, bird-watching areas, trails and hunting blinds, and $8 million for upgrades and improvements to fish hatcheries statewide.
Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather. Participants are also welcome to bring their own fishing rod and equipment if they prefer. Bait is free to all who participate during event hours.
In case of adverse weather, call DEC (631-444-0283) for any cancelation notifications.
