The state’s first Free Fishing Weekend of 2022 is on Feb. 19 and 20, when freshwater anglers are permitted to fish for free without a license.

Those new to ice fishing are encouraged to download the Ice Fishing Chapter of the Department of Environmental Conservation’s I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing for information on how to get started. A series of how-to videos geared toward beginning ice anglers are available on the DEC YouTube channel. Additional information, including a list of waters where ice fishing is permitted, can found on the DEC’s ice fishing webpage.

The DEC reminds those venturing onto the ice that four inches or more of solid ice is considered safe for accessing bodies of water on foot. Ice anglers should note that ice thickness can vary on different bodies of water and even on the same body of water.

Anglers should be particularly wary of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice buildup. The presence of snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be considered evidence of safe ice conditions.

Individuals are strongly encouraged to check ice conditions and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk. Before testing ice thickness with an auger or spud, visit the DEC’s website to learn more https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/119684.html.

February’s free-fishing days are the first of several planned for 2022. Additional free fishing days include June 25 and 26, Sept. 24 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day). During free-fishing days, residents and visitors can fish for free on any of the state's 7,500 lakes and ponds or 70,000 miles of rivers and streams. All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply.