During the weekend of June 29 and 30, anyone ages 16 and older can fish the fresh waters of New York state, and no license is required, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Kids under 16 can always fish for free. All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply.

Take advantage of this opportunity to try fishing for the first time or take someone else fishing.

Don’t have equipment? No problem. You can borrow fishing gear for the day from one of many statewide providers through the I FISH NY program, which seeks to increase fishing participation and awareness of the many statewide fishing opportunities.

The DEC website at dec.ny.gov also provides links to other fish education programs, free fish clinics and guides, as well as “How to” videos to get you started.

With more than 7,500 lakes and ponds and 70,000 miles of rivers and streams, there are plenty of places to try freshwater fishing in New York state.

Visit the “Places to Fish” webpages on dec.ny.gov for ideas on places to go. World-class fishing is right around the corner.