Fish for free this weekend in St. Lawrence County

St. Lawrence County anglers of all ages can fish without a freshwater license on Saturday, September 27, as New York State celebrates Free Fishing Day, coinciding with National Hunting and Fishing Day.

DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton encourages newcomers and experienced anglers alike to explore New York’s waterways. Free Fishing Day promotes outdoor recreation, fish and wildlife conservation, and supports Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative.

DEC and partners also offer free fishing clinics, rod lending programs through local libraries, and online resources such as the I FISH NY Beginners' Guide and the HuntFishNY app, providing tips, regulations, and fishing locations.

Participants should note that while no license is required on Free Fishing Day, all other fishing regulations still apply. The final Free Fishing Day for 2025 will be on Veterans Day, November 11.

For more information, program schedules, and participating libraries, visit DEC’s website.

No rod? No problem. DEC partners with libraries across the state to provide a fishing rod lending program. Along with borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. This affordable program provides an opportunity for people to try fishing before deciding to purchase their own gear.

For more information on the program and a list of participating libraries visit https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/freshwater-fishing/learn-to-fish/i-fish-ny-programs#loaner