Free Fishing on Lake Ontario and St Lawrence River Through Labor Day

Forget the free fishing weekend, The Department of Environmental Conservation is letting you wet a line through Labor Day without a license. The New York waters of Lake Ontario, St Lawrence River, and the lower Niagara River are all part of the program.

While many have expressed concerns about high water levels, the DEC says history has shown the fishing remains world-class even during those times. In fact, Bass Master Magazine just ranked the St Lawrence River as the nation's top destination for bass and Lake Ontario continues its reputation for trophy Trout and Salmon.

The map below highlights the free fishing areas through 5 p.m. Labor Day.

While the fishing is free, all state and federal laws and regulations regarding seasons, catch rates, and size limits are still in effect. Two more free fishing days including all New York waters are scheduled for this fall, September 28 and November 11.  Here's more info on the free fishing on Lake Ontario and St Lawrence River.