Free Local Fishing Clinics to be Held in WNY

All Ages Invited to Learn Fishing Tips and Techniques

In collaboration with the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs and Erie County Department Parks, Recreation and Forestry, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is pleased to announce that two free fishing clinics will be held in Western New York during June. These family-friendly events will offer free instruction on basic fish identification, fishing equipment and techniques to anglers of all ages.

"These clinics are the perfect opportunity to take someone fishing for the first time," said Regional Director Abby Snyder. "DEC's I FISH NY program helps to introduce people to the great sport of fishing at no cost and prepares them with the knowledge they need to go out and do it on their own."

The clinics will teach participants of all ages learn about fish identification, fishing equipment, techniques and where to fish. The events are free, and no fishing license is required to fish during the program.

Upcoming free fishing clinics in the Western New York area include:

Free Teach-Me-To-Fish Clinic
Ellicott Creek County Park
Saturday, June 10
9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Free Teach-Me-To-Fish Clinic
Chestnut Ridge County Park
Saturday, June 24
9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Pre-registration for these upcoming fishing clinics is preferred; please contact Michael Todd of DEC's Fisheries Division at 716-851-7010. Adult supervision is required for all children participating in the fishing clinic. Participants can bring their own fishing equipment, but fishing equipment and bait will also be available to borrow.

In addition, DEC has designated the last full weekend in June (June 24-25) as a free fishing weekend, enabling all residents and visitors to fish New York State's waters without a freshwater fishing license. Although a fishing license is not required for the upcoming free clinics or free fishing weekend, DEC's other fishing rules and regulations will remain in effect.

To view a list of other free fishing clinics and events scheduled at locations across the state, visit DEC's website; please note this page is updated regularly as new events are added to the list throughout the year.