New York, NY - June 26, 2015 - A detailed online map of public saltwater fishing sites in New York City is now available, State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens announced today. Provided through Google Earth, the map compliments existing freshwater fishing information available on DEC's website. The map provides information on a fishing site's location, the available amenities and mass transit information. Each site description includes links to basic angling and outdoor recreation information in New York State. All fishing maps are available on DEC's website.

"The new map will be a valuable tool for anglers looking for shoreline access opportunities in the marine district of New York State," said Commissioner Martens. "Eventually the map will be expanded beyond New York City to the entire marine district."

All saltwater anglers 16 years of age or older are required to join the free Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. To learn more about New York's fishing regulations and information on how to join the registry, visit DEC's website.

The saltwater fishing map is also available on the official New York Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife free mobile application (App). For more information on the App, including the YouTube video link on how to use the advanced GPS mapping and friend finder options, visit DEC's website.

Governor Cuomo has expanded recreational opportunities of residents and tourists, positioning New York State as a recreation destination, connecting communicates to state lands, and improving the quality of life. Governor Cuomo's NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative is an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the state. This includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees, improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State. In support of this initiative, last year $10 million in NY Works funding has been dedicated to fish hatchery repairs and 50 new land and water access projects such as boat launches, hunting blinds, trails and parking areas. Under the initiative, the 2015-16 Enacted Budget included an additional $8 million for state land access projects and an additional $4 million for the state's hatcheries in NY Works funding. The Budget also creates a new capital account which along with federal Pittman-Robertson funds will be used to manage, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, and to improve and develop public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation.

To further encourage fishing in New York State, Governor Cuomo signed legislation in 2012 expanding the opportunity for free fishing clinics, allowing more New Yorkers to experience fishing for the first time by enabling DEC to increase the number of free clinics that can be held throughout the state. The Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to allow all people the opportunity to sample the incredible fishing New York State has to offer.

Anglers are encouraged to submit feedback on the map to the NYSDEC Region 2 Bureau of Fisheries or call (718)-482-4922.