Freshwater Fishing License Requirements Waived to Fish on Wednesday, November 11
Free Fishing Day is One of Many Ways New York State Recognizes and Assists Veterans and Active-Duty Military in Connecting to the Outdoors
November 6, 2026 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York will honor veterans on the year’s seventh and final Free Fishing Day of 2026 on Wednesday, November 11. During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters, offering the perfect opportunity for beginners to try out the sport for the first time or for skilled anglers to bring along friends and family to experience New York’s fisheries.
“I encourage New Yorkers to Get Offline and Get Outside on the last free fishing day of the year to enjoy affordable outdoor recreation and honor the veterans who have defended our freedom,” Governor Hochul said. “It’s a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, introduce someone new to fishing and enjoy New York’s world-class fisheries.”
Fishing action can still be plentiful in the late fall and early winter months around the state. New York’s Great Lakes tributaries offer opportunities to catch steelhead and brown trout. Catch and release fishing season for trout in inland streams can be found across the state, while the bite for tiger muskellunge, muskellunge and pike can also pick up this time of year. (As a reminder, muskellunge season closes on 11/30 for inland waters and 12/15 for Great Lakes waters.) If fishing in western or central New York, check out the weekly fishing hotline reports to get the latest information on what’s biting.
Posted: November 6th, 2026 under Law Enforcement News, State Government News.