Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Tuesday, Nov. 11 will be the final Free Fishing Day of 2025, waiving the freshwater fishing license requirement statewide to honor Veterans. While licenses aren’t needed, all other fishing regulations remain in effect.
The initiative encourages New Yorkers to “Get Offline and Get Outside,” offering an affordable way to enjoy nature and reflect on the freedoms secured by Veterans.
In addition to Free Fishing Days, New York provides discounted or free fishing licenses for active-duty military and veterans with service-related disabilities. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) highlights fall fishing opportunities, including trout, salmon, and muskellunge, and offers resources like the Places to Fish site and the HuntFishNY app for finding locations.
Free Fishing Day supports Governor Hochul’s Get Offline, Get Outside campaign promoting outdoor recreation for mental and physical health. DEC also hosts therapeutic programs for Veterans, such as the annual Healing Military Servicemembers and Veterans thru Fly Fishing event on the Salmon River, which has been running for over 15 years.
For more information on fishing spots, regulations, and health advisories, visit DEC’s website or use its interactive tools.