Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that New York’s final statewide Free Fishing Day of 2025 will take place on Tuesday, November 11, in recognition of Veterans Day. On this day, residents and visitors can fish in New York’s freshwater bodies without needing a fishing license, though all other regulations remain in effect.
“Fall is a great time of year to fish in New York’s pristine waters while honoring a veteran in your life,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage New Yorkers to Get Offline and Get Outside on this free fishing day to enjoy an affordable outdoor recreation opportunity on the water and to reflect on the freedoms that we have in this country thanks to our Veterans.”
Veterans and active-duty military members have additional opportunities for free or reduced-fee fishing licenses. These discounts are available for those who meet certain criteria, including resident veterans with service-related disabilities.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton stated: “DEC thanks all of New York’s veterans for their dedicated service and hopes that this free fishing day provides an opportunity for families and friends to spend time together exploring our natural environment along the remarkable fisheries we have here in New York State. Free fishing days are also the perfect time to introduce someone new to the sport or test out a new fishing spot at any of the state’s world class lakes, streams or ponds.”
Viviana M. DeCohen, Commissioner of the Department of Veterans’ Services, added: “On behalf of the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, I extend our deepest appreciation to Governor Kathy Hochul for her steadfast leadership and unwavering support for all who served. Free Fishing Day is more than a tradition — it is an invitation for our Veterans, Service Members, and their families to connect with the healing power of nature, build community, and enjoy the beauty of our great state. As we honor all who served this Veterans Day and throughout Veterans Month, we encourage everyone to get outside, celebrate our freedoms, and take a moment to thank a Veteran in your life.”
Fishing activity typically increases across New York as water temperatures drop during fall months. Trout stream regulations require catch-and-release with artificial lures only through March 31. Great Lakes tributaries see runs from Pacific salmon species (kings and cohos), steelhead, and brown trout during this period. Anglers should note muskellunge season closes November 30 for inland waters and December 15 for Great Lakes waters.
Free Fishing Days are part of Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative aimed at encouraging physical activity by getting children and families outdoors away from screens.
The Department of Environmental Conservation recently held its annual ‘Healing Military Servicemembers and Veterans thru Fly Fishing’ weekend event on Salmon River in Oswego County. The three-day event brings together veterans through local organizations such as Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing Inc., providing therapeutic outdoor experiences despite challenging conditions like low water levels.
For information about where to fish on Veterans Day or throughout the year—including details about parking locations or boat launches—anglers can visit DEC’s Places to Fish site or use mapping tools such as DEC info Locator Interactive Map or HuntFishNY mobile app Tackle Box feature.
Anglers are encouraged not only to enjoy local fisheries but also consider donating their catch when possible; they should consult health guidance from the Department of Health regarding safe consumption practices for wild-caught fish.
