Again this year, the DEC plans an Ice Fishing Clinic at Homer’s Casterline Pond.
The goal is to encourage families to learn to fish during school break.
Weather permitting, the event will be Wednesday, February 23, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Casterline Pond fishing access parking area on Route 11, just north of Homer.
No fishing license needed, but do follow all the regulations.
“This free, non-competitive event is geared toward all ages, especially those seeking an introduction to ice fishing and an opportunity to be immersed in New York’s exceptional winter recreation activities,” DEC Regional Director Matthew Marko said. “Scheduled to coincide with the school vacation, it’s the perfect time for a family outing to learn more about the sport.”
Please visit DEC’s Free Fishing Clinics webpage on Feb. 23 to confirm event status. DEC will supply bait, tackle, and the drilling of holes. There will be a short lesson on the basics of ice fishing and DEC will be on hand throughout the event to assist participants on the ice. Casterline Pond has brown and rainbow trout, along with bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish.
While a New York State fishing license is not required for this event, all other statewide and special regulations remain in effect. Normally, anyone age 16 or older is required to obtain a fishing license to fish or assist with fishing in fresh waters of New York State. Children under age 16 must be supervised. In addition to this free fishing clinic,
Those new to ice fishing are encouraged to download the Ice Fishing Chapter of DEC’s I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing for information on how to get started. A series of “how to” videos geared toward beginning ice anglers are available on the DEC YouTube channel. Additional information, including a list of waters where ice fishing is permitted, can found on the DEC ice fishing webpage.
