The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Onondaga County Parks today announced a series of all-ages, all-level, all-abilities, family-friendly, catch-and-release fishing events from April 11 to September 12 at various locations on Onondaga Lake in Onondaga County. 

“Join DEC’s learn-to-fish events offering everyone of any ability a chance to get started fishing or introduce others to fishing,” said DEC Region 7 Director Dereth Glance. “All equipment is provided and no license is needed, so Get Offline, Get Outside, and learn to fish with DEC. All abilities and experiences are welcome and supported!” 

All events are land-based, and no fishing license is necessary to participate. DEC fishing rods are available for participants to use. DEC will also provide corn and worms for bait. DEC staff will be assisting first-time anglers and others who may need assistance. Registration is not required. 

Family Friendly Learn-to-Fish Events: 

When: Saturday, April 11, 2–4 p.m.

Where: Americans with Disabilities Act- (ADA) compliant fishing jetty in the Willow Bay section of Onondaga Lake Park, 228 East Shore Trail, Liverpool, NY 13088

Details: Parking is available at the Willow Bay parking lot near the Willow Bay Shelter. There is a paved route to the accessible fishing jetty from this parking lot.

When: Saturday, May 9, 9–11 a.m.

Where: Deep Water Fishing Pier, West Shore Trail, Onondaga Lake Park, 232 Restoration Way, Syracuse, NY 13204

When: Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Where: Deep Water Fishing Pier, West Shore Trail, Onondaga Lake Park, 232 Restoration Way, Syracuse, NY 13204

When: Saturday, July 11, 9–11 a.m.

Where: ADA-compliant fishing jetty in the Willow Bay section of Onondaga Lake Park, 228 East Shore Trail, Liverpool, NY 13088

Details: Parking is available at the Willow Bay parking lot near the Willow Bay shelter. There is a paved route to the accessible fishing jetty from this parking lot.

When: Saturday, September 12, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Where: DEC’s Onondaga Lake Visitor Center, Onondaga Lake Boat Launch, 270 Restoration Way, Syracuse, NY 13204

For specific questions about these events, please contact DEC Environmental Educator Betsy Ukeritis at (315) 314-0768 or r678ed@dec.ny.gov.