Do you live in Central New York and want to give fishing a try but don’t have gear? You can borrow a fishing rod from NOPL Brewerton thanks to a partnership between the library and the NYS DEC. Place a hold on a fishing rod here.
Fishing rods are loaned for one week with one auto-renewal – so you’ll have it for up to two weeks!
What else do I get when I borrow a fishing rod?
Fishing rods include the reel, a sinker, three bobbers, two hooks, and instructions on how to cast. As for bait, you can find that at local bait shops and gas stations, including:
Who can borrow a fishing rod?
Kids and teens under age 16 must have a parent or guardian sign a loan agreement and waiver. Everyone age 16 and older must show a valid fishing license* and sign the loan agreement and waiver. Purchase a license, locate places to fish, and find fishing clinics online at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation website.
Where can I go fishing?
Thanks to all the lakes and waterways in Central New York there are lots of good fishing holes. Across the street from the library is Riverside Park on the Oneida River – that’s one good place to start! Check the NYS website referenced above or ask when you pick up bait – they know the best spots! For more information about NYS freshwater fishing regulations, visit the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation website.
Free Fishing Days!
If you’d like to try out the sport before purchasing a fishing license, New York State has a few free fishing days throughout the year. Other regulations still apply – more information can be found here. Upcoming Free Fishing Days are as follows:
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February 15-16, 2025 (Presidents Day Weekend)
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June 28-29, 2025
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September 27, 2025 (National Hunting and Fishing Day)
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November 11, 2025 (Veterans Day)
*You don’t need to have a fishing license to borrow a rod on Free Fishing Days.
