NYLON – New York State residents can create their own fishing opportunities for kids through ‘I FISH NY,’ an initiative to expose all ages and backgrounds to fishing.
According to a press release from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), since new legislation was signed two years ago there have been 350 free fishing clinics organized by local folks across the state.
“Thanks to Governor Cuomo’s New York Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative and I FISH NY, the fishing opportunities in and around urban areas are better than ever,” said DEC Acting Commissioner Basil Seggos. “They have been well received by residents who said they were unaware of the fishing opportunities available so close to home.”
DEC has approved approximately 200 fishing clinics in 2015 alone, reaching an estimated 30,000 participants since 2013.
Individuals and groups other than DEC can hold fishing clinics provided they receive DEC authorization and provide an educational focus. One of the advantages is that participants do not need a license to fish and are not required to enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. Use this application form to conduct your own fishing clinic.
See the rules and requirements to host a fishing clinic here.
Participants are also taught about the fish they can catch, how to cast a fishing rod, fishing safety, aquatic resource stewardship and fishing regulations.
“One of the most positive benefits of fishing is that it’s an activity that can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of their age or ability,” said Saggos. “These events provide the perfect opportunity for people to try the sport of fishing for the first time, or reconnect those who have since taken on other activities.”
Children under 16 years old or people holding a valid New York fishing license can also borrow a fishing rod at a participating location.
If you plan to borrow a fishing rod from a library, you may need a library card from that library to borrow a rod. Please call ahead if you plan to borrow a fishing rod.
For Livingston County, rods can be borrowed at the Dansville Public Library, 200 Main Street, Dansville, NY 14437.
NYLON is the New York Local Online News section of the GeneseeSun.com, dedicated to uniting communities outside of Livingston County.