News from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

For more information contact: Nim Lee, 718-482-4940

DEC Announces Free Fishing Clinics in New York City

Great Chances to Learn About New York City Fishing

ALBANY, NY (09/17/2007; 1207)(readMedia)-- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s I FISH NY program will hold two free fishing events this fall. Each clinic begins with an educational session followed by fishing. Instructions, rods, and bait are all provided.

The goal of I FISH NY is to help citizens enjoy, understand, and take part in protecting the fishery resources of the New York City metro area by taking people fishing. At the clinics, we provide information on local fish diversity, fishing regulations, and fish consumption advisories.

The fall 2007 clinic schedule is as follows:

Sept. 20, 2007, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Gantry Plaza State Park: 474 48th Avenue, Long Island City, Queens.

Sept. 29, 2007, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Swindler Cove: Harlem River Drive and Dyckman Street at 10th Avenue, Manhattan. This clinic is part of the Harlem River Festival.

Pre-registration is recommended. Call 718-482-4940/ 4022/ 4920. The clinics are open to people of all ages, though it is not recommended for children 8 years and younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing gear will be provided, but participants may bring their own. Please be sure to dress appropriately. Light rain or cool weather will not cancel the events. Call 347-527-0361 to check on cancellations due to severe weather conditions. At all clinics, we practice “catch and release fishing,” returning fish into the water.