DEC ANNOUNCES TAX-PAYER FUNDED ‘FREE” FISHING CLINICS ACROSS NEW YORK STATE

Anglers Encouraged to Safely Enjoy Ice Fishing on New York Waters as Ice Conditions Improve

A series of what the DEC calls “free ice fishing clinics” are scheduled across New York State to educate people about ice fishing and how to safely enjoy time on the ice, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Basil Seggos announced.

The clinics, conducted by DEC, and paid for by state taxpayers are part of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s I FISH NY program, which “aims to increase participation and awareness of the outstanding fishing opportunities in New York,” according to a press release issued by the DEC.

“… ]W]e are thrilled to provide these free clinics to introduce residents and visitors to the sport and provide them with tips on how to safely enjoy this winter tradition,” Acting Commissioner Seggos said. “Anglers do need to allow solid ice to set up before venturing out for their fishing trip, and our clinics will provide information on how to check for appropriate conditions.”

While the fishing clinics are not free to taxpayer, participants can attend free of charge.

Governor Cuomo has also designated February 13-14, 2016 as the state’s first free fishing weekend where the requirements for a fishing license has been suspended. Residents and visitors age 16 and older will be able to fish the fresh or marine waters of New York State without a license.

A DEC issued fishing license is not required to participate in the “free”clinics. Children under 16 must be supervised.

Some of the “Free” fishing clinics include taxpayer purchased bait and tackle.

The clinics will be held: Canadarago Lake – Otsego County – January 30; Long Island – Brookhaven Town Beach on Lake Ronkonkoma – February 6;  Cazenovia Lake – Madison County – February 6; Otsego Lake – Otsego County – February 17;  Casterline Pond – Cortland County – February 18; Carter’s Pond – Washington County – March 5.

Is government supposed to entertain the governed?

Rome fell. Rome had it’s Circus Maximus to entertain it’s citizens, at the Colosseum with lions and gladiators.

Modern government thinks spending taxpayer $’s on concerts and subsidizing NFL football teams is appropriate.

Now there are taxpayer funded clinics to promote ice fishing.

Is this government’s domain? Is government supposed to care and tend to the entertainment of the governed?