The summer season is behind us and the leaves are starting to change, but there’s plenty of time left to appreciate the great outdoors in Central New York and throughout the state. We’re fortunate to have a natural landscape that presents numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, creating the perfect setting to get outside and unwind. This weekend, grab your fishing pole and favorite lure and take advantage of National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday, September 26.

Started in 1971, the day encourages sportsmen and women to celebrate the rich traditions of fishing, hunting and target shooting, and recognizes them for their prominence in wildlife and conservation. Nearly 50 million people go fishing annually – it’s a great pastime for all ages and skill levels to connect with and learn about the great outdoors.

This Saturday is also a free fishing day throughout New York state. Anyone can fish the state’s freshwaters and no fishing license is required. More information can be found on the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website.

FRESHWATER FISHING CLOSE TO HOME

Whether you’ve been fishing with your father since you were five, or are picking up a pole for the first time, there are numerous places to fish right in your own backyard. From the Redfield Reservoir to Nine Mile Creek up to Sandy Pond, the waterways are teeming with trout, black bass and yellow perch.

With more than 7,500 lakes and ponds and 70,000 miles of rivers and streams, there are plenty of places to get away from it all and find a quiet place to try freshwater fishing this weekend. DEC offers a complete listing here.

No matter where your favorite fishing hole is, please remember to follow and adhere to all regulations. Remember, fishing and conservation go hand-in-hand, and it’s critical that we support and protect our aquatic natural resources for future generations. Responsible fishing, taking care of our own garbage and being aware of the aquatic life in the waters around us are just a few ways we can all do our part to support conservation methods.