Assemblyman Kevin Byrne (R,C,Ref-Mahopac) joined residents of the 94th Assembly District on Saturday, September 28th at Pelton Pond in Fahnestock State Park for a day of free fishing, food and conversation. Several weeks during the year, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation offers Free Fishing Days/Weekends, where New Yorkers can fish in the state without possessing a fishing license. The program provides novices and sportsman who have not applied for their license an opportunity to enjoy a day of fishing amidst New York’s serene nature.
Byrne promoted the Free Fishing Day held on Saturday to his constituents through his district office, and supplied free food for those who attended. “Free Fishing Weekends are a great opportunity offered by the State to highlight the beauty of our region and encourage residents and visitors to enjoy all the benefits freshwater fishing has to offer,” said Byrne. “It was wonderful to see young families from Westchester and Putnam counties come take in the beauty of Pelton Pond and enjoy an afternoon of fishing. It’s always a pleasure to meet with constituents in such a beautiful outdoor setting.”
Bruce Kuttruf a resident of Putnam Valley who attended the event with his wife Jennifer and son Zachary added, “Pelton Pond is such a beautiful location, and offers a truly fun, family-friendly environment. I want to thank Assemblyman Byrne for making us aware of this program by the DEC and coming to Pelton Pond to make himself available to his constituents.”
Fishing and sportsman related activities play a vital role in the state’s economy. According to a 2015 report from the NYS Comptroller’s office that cited statistics from 2011, consumer spending on outdoor sporting in the state was over $5 billion. In addition, close to $1.9 billion was spent on transportation, lodging, and food.
Future dates for Free Fishing Days/Weekends are:
November 11, 2019
February 15-16, 2020
June 27-28, 2020
More information on NYS DEC’s Free Fishing Days can be found here