In conjunction with the upcoming statewide free fishing weekend where New York residents and visitors may fish for free without a fishing license in any of the state’s lakes and ponds, the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will host a free fishing clinic at Kissena Lake in Kissena Park, Queens from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27.

“New York State offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the country and free fishing clinics are a wonderful way for people to learn about this popular sport and enjoy a day in the great outdoors,” DEC Regional Director Venetia Lannon said.

Activities for the clinic begin at 10 a.m. and are provided free of charge. Activities will include fishing, fishing instruction, and a casting practice area. There will be a variety of educational displays, including information on invasive species and coloring activities for younger children. Environmental Conservation Officers will be on hand to answer questions about fishing regulations and enforcement.

All fishing rods, bait, and tackle will be provided. The clinic is during Free Fishing Weekend, so a freshwater fishing license is not required for anglers age 16 and older. Other city and state fishing rules and regulations remain in effect. To learn more about New York's fishing regulations and information on how and where to obtain a fishing license, visit DEC's website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html.

For additional information call I FISH NY at (718) 482-4920. There is no rain date for this event.

Governor Cuomo has expanded recreational opportunities of residents and tourists, positioning New York State as a recreation destination, connecting communicates to state lands, and improving the quality of life.  Governor Cuomo’s NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative is an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the state. This includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees, improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State. In support of this initiative, last year $10 million in NY Works funding has been dedicated to fish hatchery repairs and 50 new land and water access projects such as boat launches, hunting blinds, trails and parking areas. 

Under the initiative, the 2015-16 Enacted Budget included an additional $8 million for state land access projects and an additional $4 million for the state's hatcheries in NY Works funding. The Budget also creates a new capital account which along with federal Pittman-Robertson funds will be used to manage, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, and to improve and develop public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation.

In addition to the June free fishing weekend, legislation signed by Governor Cuomo now allows for an increase in the number of authorized yearly statewide free fishing days. This year, Veteran’s Day, November 11, has also been designated as a free fishing day.