This makes it very easy for a person to find a place to fish and to have fun with friends and family. It is simple for anyone to do. Even when people don't catch fish, they still enjoy the outdoors and the relaxation of wetting a line. It's a lifetime sport that is perfect for everyone. DEC and other organizations frequently sponsor free fishing clinics that are an excellent opportunity for new anglers to learn more about fish and fishing.
Fishing is an important part of New York's economy.
Studies of fishing in New York State by Cornell University show that over one million persons holding fishing licenses fished 18,600,000 days in 1996.