Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today encouraged New Yorkers to take advantage of the upcoming first Free Fishing Weekend of 2021, on February 13 and 14, when anglers are permitted to fish for free without a license.
"New York is home to some of the best lakes, ponds, rivers and streams in the world, all offering exceptional fishing opportunities all year round," Governor Cuomo said. "As the nation continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, families are seeking outdoor activities that don't break the bank or require extensive travel, and this Free Fishing weekend is a perfect option for anglers of all experience levels to enjoy the very best that the Empire State has to offer."
"During these tremendously challenging times, free fishing days give New Yorkers a chance to enjoy the peace and solace of the outdoors year-round," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "No matter the season, we are committed to promoting all of the great things to do outdoors in New York and enhance quality of life for all New Yorkers across the state."
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "Every year, more and more New Yorkers discover there are just as many fantastic fishing opportunities during the winter months as during the summer. Ice fishing is a great activity for families to do together, and the annual February Free Fishing weekend is the perfect time for first timers to give it a try on waters with ice thick enough to access safely."
Those new to ice fishing are encouraged to download the Ice Fishing Chapter of DEC's I FISH NY Beginners' Guide to Freshwater Fishing for information on how to get started. Additional information, including a list of waters where ice fishing is permitted, can found on the DEC ice fishing webpage.
Recent cold weather has improved ice conditions across the state and DEC reminds those venturing onto the ice that four inches or more of solid ice is considered safe for accessing bodies of water on foot. Ice anglers should note that ice thickness can vary on different bodies of water and even on the same body of water. Anglers should be particularly wary of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice buildup. The presence of snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be considered evidence of safe ice conditions. Individuals are strongly encouraged to check ice conditions and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk. It's easy to test ice thickness with an auger or ice spud at various spots.
New York's Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give people who might not fish a chance to try the rewarding sport at no cost, to introduce people to a new hobby, and to encourage people to support the management of the State's freshwater fisheries by purchasing a New York State fishing license. February's free fishing days are the first of several planned for 2021. Additional days include June 26 and 27, September 25 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) and November 11 (Veterans Day). During free fishing days, residents and visitors can fish for free on any of the state's 7,500 lakes and ponds or 70,000 miles of rivers and streams.
Ice fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the winter months while practicing social distancing. Unlike some other styles of fishing, ice fishing is unique because groups can spread out and fish safely. DEC is reminding anglers to be SMART when fishing this year:
The free fishing days program is part of the Governor's NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative. Fishing and hunting in New York build a sense of stewardship of fish and wildlife resources and habitats, provide an opportunity for experienced hunters and anglers to share their knowledge with others, and promote participation in hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting through the mentoring of young hunters and anglers. New York's hunters and anglers contribute an estimated $4.9 billion to the economy in spending, which supports more than 56,000 jobs and $623 million in state and local taxes.
Governor Cuomo's 2021-22 State of the State address included several measures to safely enhance recreational and cultural programs in a manner that improves these experiences for all New Yorkers, including hunting and fishing. It includes the proposal for DEC to create a new interactive trout stream fishing map and app to provide anglers one-stop-shopping for trout stream fishing opportunities, including easy access to information about access points, applicable regulations, and stocking schedules, making it easy to choose a fishing experience based on interest and experience.
Get Outside Safely, Responsibly, and Locally
New York State's PLAY SMART * PLAY SAFE * PLAY LOCAL campaign encourages residents to engage in responsible recreation during the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and DEC recommendations for getting outside safely incorporate guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the New York State Department of Health for reducing the spread of infectious diseases. PLAY SMART * PLAY SAFE * PLAY LOCAL encourages New Yorkers to recreate locally, practice physical distancing, show respect for all outdoor adventurers, and use common sense to protect themselves and others. Wear a mask, even when visiting the outdoors. For more information about how to PLAY SMART * PLAY SAFE * PLAY LOCAL, visit DEC's website.
February 04, 2021 at 11:38PM
https://ift.tt/3q1GSlS
Governor Cuomo Announces First Free Fishing Weekend of 2021 - ny.gov
https://ift.tt/35JkYuc
Fish
No comments:
Post a Comment