DEC and State Parks Announce Sixth Annual Women's Fishing Expo on Long Island

Activities Promote Governor Kathy Hochul's 'Get Offline, Get Outside' Campaign and Boost Local Recreational Economies

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) will hold the sixth annual Women's Fishing Expo at Connetquot River State Park Preserve in the town of Islip, Suffolk County, on Saturday, September 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"The annual Women's Fishing Expo has introduced hundreds of participants to fishing, providing hands-on skill building and sharing knowledge for people to feel confident about getting offline and outside to cast a line throughout the state," DEC Commissioner Lefton said. "DEC is proud to return to support this free event to foster future outdoor enthusiasts, and encourages the public to participate in other free fishing clinics and events in their communities."

"Fishing is an enjoyable way to get outside and explore our great State Parks," State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said. "We're happy to partner with DEC to offer this Women's Fishing Expo once again - and help people to learn more about how they can take a break from daily stresses and enjoy the lifelong sport of fishing."

The Women's Fishing Expo provides hands-on instruction and experiential learning in a fun and supportive environment. Run primarily by women anglers and fisheries professionals, this event will also feature women-owned businesses and fishing clubs for networking opportunities. Everyone is welcome to attend, although the event is focused on introducing women and girls to fishing.

Expo activities begin at 10 a.m. and are free of charge. Participants can learn about fishing on Long Island and statewide, fishing basics and intermediate fishing skills, basic knots, fly tying demonstrations, fly casting instruction, fisheries management information, a trout hatchery tour, marine fishing information, and free fly fishing on the renowned Connetquot River. Fly casting and fly fishing are limited to those aged 16 and older.

This is a rain or shine event. Spots are limited, and pre-registration before Sept. 8 is required. For more information, or to register, call the DEC's I FISH NY Program at (631) 444-0283, or email [email protected]with the subject title 'Women's Fishing Expo.'

A vehicle use fee of $8 will be in effect. Parking is free for Empire Passport holders. The 2025 Empire Passport can be purchased for $80 at State Parks offices, or online at the New York State Parks website.

The event complements Governor Kathy Hochul's "Get Offline, Get Outside" campaign to encourage New York's kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings, and put their mental and physical health first.

To help make fishing more affordable and help inspire the next generation of anglers, DEC also partners with libraries across the state to provide a free fishing rod lending program. In addition to borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. This program offers an opportunity for people to try fishing before purchasing their own gear. For more information and a list of participating libraries, visit the DEC's website.

DEC and its partners also host free fishing clinics throughout the state year-round and offer Free Fishing Days since 1991 to allow all people the opportunity to sample the incredible fishing New York has to offer. Two free fishing days are left in 2025, Sept. 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York's waters. To learn more about free fishing opportunities, visit DEC's website.

Outside of free fishing days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license. For more information on purchasing a license visit the DEC website.

The New York State Department of Health (DOH) provides advice to anglers about what fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit DOH's website to search by waterbody location.

For information about freshwater fishing on Long Island, call the DEC Bureau of Fisheries at (631) 444-0283, e-mail [email protected], or visit DEC's website.