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View Full Version : Dec Marks National Fishing And Boating Week* June 2 - 10


RJ
06-06-2007, 03:08 PM
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete
Grannis today reminded New Yorkers that June 2-10* 2007 marks National Fishing and Boating Week. New York State has over 7*500 lakes* ponds and reservoirs and over 50*000 miles of rivers and streams which offer extensive opportunities for fishing and boating for outdoor enthusiasts.

“Warmer weather has arrived* and that means an increase in outdoor recreational
activities. National Fishing and Boating Week highlights New York’s unique water resources and reminds us to renew our commitment to protect them*” said Commissioner Grannis. “Fishing and boating activities not only increase environmental awareness and good stewardship practices* they are fun for people of all ages. I encourage everyone to take the time this summer to enjoy all of New York’s outdoor recreational opportunities.”

Recreational boating is a great way to view some of the state’s unique natural landscapes* aquatic habitats and wildlife. DEC encourages all outdoor enthusiasts* whether on the water or on a dock* to wear a life jacket and obey boating regulations and environmental laws. For a complete list of DEC boat launch sites across New York State* go to DEC’s website* www.dec.ny.gov * follow the “Boating” link under the “Outdoor Recreation” section on the home page.

The New York State Office of Parks* Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) produces the New York State Boater’s Guide which contains information on boating safety* as well as the rules and regulations associated with boating. This guide and other pertinent information can be accessed on OPRHP’s website at www.nysparks.state.ny.us . DEC also reminds boaters that any vessel that is propelled by a motor must be registered through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For more information on how to register a motorized vessel* visit DMV’s website www.nysdmv.com .

DEC also encourages anglers to take advantage of the state’s waters which are home to more than 45 species of gamefish and panfish* providing excellent opportunities for anglers. DEC has purchased over 1*300 miles of Public Fishing Rights from private landowners. These permanent easements on rivers* streams and creeks allow anglers to fish and walk along the banks of otherwise private property. For selected PFR locations around the state go to DEC’s website* www.dec.ny.gov* and follow the “Fishing” link which is located under the “Outdoor Recreation” section on the home page.

In an effort to provide anglers with additional fishing opportunities for two of New York’s most popular sportfish* a catch and release season was established for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Using artificial lures only* anglers can now take advantage of fishing for these species from December 1 through the Friday preceding the third Saturday in June. This new regulation does not apply to Bronx* Franklin* Hamilton* Jefferson* Kings* Nassau* New York* Queens* Richmond* St. Lawrence* and Suffolk counties. For further information about New York State Freshwater Fishing Regulations visit to DEC’s website* www.dec.ny.gov* and follow the “Fishing” link which is located under the “Outdoor Recreation” section on the home page.

To encourage more opportunities to fish* the last weekend in June is designated as Free Fishing Days. During those two days* anyone can legally fish New York State waters without a fishing license. This year* June 23 & 24 mark DEC’s Free Fishing Days.

“As no license is required* it is the perfect time to introduce a friend or relative to fishing*” Commissioner Grannis urged. “First time anglers* as well as those who have drifted away from the sport* should take advantage of this opportunity.”

For a listing of Free Fishing Events happening around the state go to DEC’s website* www.dec.ny.gov * and follow the “Fishing” link which is located under the “Outdoor Recreation” section on the home page.

DEC owns and operates over 400 public boating and fishing access sites across the state. For information about fishing and boating in your area* contact a DEC Regional Office nearest you. For further details about National Fishing and Boating Week visit http://www.takemefishing.org/nationalfishingboatingweek .

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