Hot Topics     Family Fun    

Look for safe ice when ice fishing



Free Fishing Weekend is February 18-19, 2023

Tips for staying safe when ice fishing

Anglers in New York State can stay busy all winter by targeting some of their favorite fish species through the ice.

If you've never been ice fishing before and would like to test the waters - learn how to ice fish.

Safe ice should be your number one consideration when ice fishing. Be sure ice is at least 4 inches thick. DEC's ice fishing webpage has links to our basic technique video, regulations, and places to ice fish. Don't forget to buy your annual fishing license. For more information on places to ice fish, visit DEC's website.

Watch a clip about ice fishing and check out other clips on DEC's YouTube Channel.

Don’t forget, February 18-19 is a free fishing weekend where anyone can fish in New York without a fishing license. It's the perfect opportunity to introduce fishing to a friend or family member.

During Free Fishing Days/Weekends, anyone can fish the fresh waters of New York State and no fishing license is required! All other freshwater fishing regulations still apply.

Other Free Fishing Dates for 2023
  • June 24-25, 2023
  • September 23, 2023
  • November 11, 2023
Ideas for Free Fishing Days
  • Try fishing for the first time.
  • Haven't fished in a while? Remember the joy of catching a fish again for free!
  • Become an ambassador to the sport; take a friend fishing for the first time.
  • Invite a friend to New York to fish.
  • Take a spouse or significant other fishing.
  • Take the family fishing...and don't forget the grandparents!



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Save a life from stroke

    Tips from the American Stroke Association

    Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age – even young people. Despite being one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States, strokes are largely preventable, treatable and beatable – if you can control your risk factors. read more »
  • Take steps now to protect your vision

    Regular eye exams are the best thing you can do

    Your quality of life and overall well-being depend on developing healthy habits. These practices are essential to your eye health. read more »
  • How women experience heart disease differently

    Symptoms are not always obvious

    Most people think of heart attacks as debilitating pain in the chest. However, that’s not always the case, especially for women, and missing the signs can be a matter of life and death. read more »
  • Serve a simple pasta salad this summer

    A quick and easy dish your family will love

    Some summertime dishes are just too good to be true. This Easy Pasta Salad is simple enough to become a favorite side and filling enough to serve as a light main course. read more »
  • Combatting Cracked Concrete

    Causes of failing concrete and how to solve them

    Concrete is a strong, durable and easy-to-maintain material that is popular for driveways, walkways, patios and more. Like most materials, though, it can inevitably wear down over time. read more »
  • A Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your Own Oil

    It's easier than you think

    Changing your vehicle’s oil is a crucial maintenance task that can extend its life and improve performance. It’s also a task many DIYers can handle on their own with just a few tools. read more »
  • Create a Cozy Outdoor Space with a Backyard Firepit

    Time to make a warm and inviting outdoor retreat

    A firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. read more »
  • Phones Down, Eyes Up™

    Campaign to reduce distractions and increase water safety

    May’s National Water Safety Month, the campaign aims to reduce distractions and improve water safety awareness, specifically targeting families as they head to pools and waterfronts this summer. read more »
  • Enjoy a light summer lunch

    Make broccoli the star of this dish

    Try this broccoli salad. It makes an ideal light lunch or simple summer side. read more »
  • Turn a Favorite Spring Veggie into a Stellar Soup

    Carrots are the star of this dish

    If you’re in need of a soup outside the usual mushroom or celery varieties, turn to another springtime favorite: carrots. read more »