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 seventh annual Women's Fly-Fishing Expo at Connetquot River State Park Preserve in the Town of Islip, Suffolk County, on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “We are thrilled to bring back the annual Women’s Fly-Fishing Expo, which highlights DEC’s ongoing mission to expand access and provide hands-on instruction for New Yorkers. This clinic gives participants a supportive, low-pressure environment to build skills and gain confidence, helping us foster the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy getting out on the Connetquot to take part in New York’s world-class fishing.”
State Parks Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “The annual Free Women’s Fly-Fishing Expo is a great example of how we are expanding access to the outdoors and creating welcoming opportunities for people to learn new skills, build connections, and experience New York’s natural resources. State Parks is proud to continue this tradition and partnership with DEC, introducing women of all experience levels to the rewards of fly fishing and encouraging more New Yorkers to discover the many benefits of outdoor recreation.”
The Women's Fly-Fishing Expo provides experiential learning in a fun and supportive environment primarily run 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 attend a trout hatchery tour and learn about fisheries management and fishing on Long Island and statewide. Information provided while fly fishing on the renowned Connetquot River includes fishing basics, intermediate fishing, basic knots, fly tying, fly casting, and marine fishing. 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 September 4 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 Fly-Fishing Expo.'
A vehicle use fee of $8 will be in effect. Parking is free for Empire Passport holders. The 2026 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 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 remain in 2026, September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) and November 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’s 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.
