“FREE FISHING DAY” & “CRAPPIE DERBY” (WHITNEY POINT): Sat., 2/14/2026
New York State will be offering a Free Fishing Weekend on Saturday, February 14 & Sunday, February 15, 2026. Coincidentally, the “Almost Annual Crappie Derby” is anticipated to be held this year on Saturday, February 14th at Dorchester Park in Whitney Point. Registration begins at 7 a.m. (You must be registered to win prizes.) The “derby” starts at 8 a.m. This means if you’re 16 and older, you don’t need a fishing license to fish at the Crappie Derby! Even though a fishing license isn’t required, all other freshwater fishing regulations remain in effect.
What better way to spend some quality time with your family . . . take the kids out fishing in the morning, then take your spouse out for a nice Valentine’s dinner in the evening! 🙂
“Free fishing Days” in 2026 will be held on:
- Sat., Feb. 14 & Sun., Feb. 15 (Presidents’ Day weekend)
- Sat., June 27 & Sun., June 28
- September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
- November 11 (Veterans Day)
If you’re on Facebook, you can get Crappy Derby updates at the Whitney Point Sportsmens Association page.
To learn more about fishing in general, please click here to go to the NYS DEC website.
