New York Fish and Hang Weekend
Welcome to the first New York Fish and Hang Weekend, a gathering of like-minded individuals seeking connection, empowerment, and fun! Proudly brought to you by iFishiBelong, we warmly invite everyone to be part of this experience. This event is all-inclusive, and we welcome people of all skill levels to join.
Our Fish and Hang format, inspired by United Women on the Fly, allows participants to venture out to fish on their own each day and then hang out and share fishing tales together in the evenings. Whether you lean towards camping, reserving a cabin or hotel, DIY fishing, or hiring a guide, we share resources for all budgets. This event occurs in the beautiful setting of the Adirondacks, near Wilmington New York, from October 4th to October 6th, 2024.
For any questions or if you’d like to borrow equipment, reach out to us at [email protected]. We look forward to sharing this fishing adventure with you!
Register for the Weekend
New York Co-Hosts
All Are welcomed
The New York Fish and Hang is open to everyone and is not exclusive to women or fly fishing. iFishiBelong’s mission is to advocate for all species, techniques, and people and to create a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated and discrimination is not tolerated.
iFishiBelong’s Fish and Hang events offer attendees the chance to explore, engage in DIY fishing, and partake in social gatherings. Additionally, these events serve as a platform for highlighting local businesses and guides.
Location
Wilmington, New York
Dates
October 4th – 6th, 2024
Live Q&A Session
- Tuesday, August 19th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET
- Register HERE
Why Join?
Community
iFishiBelong celebrates community through the Fish and Hang Events, uniting individuals who are seeking connection, empowerment and fun!
Fishing
iFishiBelong selects Fish and Hang locations tailed for the DIY angler. These spots offer easy walk-and-wade options to public waters.
Education
iFishiBelong offers accessible education via Live Q&A, engaged Facebook interactions, in-person workshops, and on and off water involvement.
Affordability
iFishiBelong is committed to providing accessible opportunities for anglers of varying financial means by organizing a variety of cost-effective events.
Weekend Activities
Each day is centered on fishing adventures, concluding with social hangouts in the evenings. We urge individuals to engage with each other in the Facebook Group to form fishing friendships and coordinate weekend adventures. Register HERE.
- Thursday 10/3/24
- Some Arrive and DIY Fish
- Friday 10/4/24
- 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm – “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop
- Fee Applies, Register for the Independent Angler Workshop HERE
- 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm – “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop
- Saturday 10/5/24 – Social Fishing and Exploring
- Register for Guide and Private Ausable River Access HERE
- Evening Hang – Wilmington NY (More Details to Come)
- Sunday 10/6/24 – Fish and Depart
- DIY Fishing
Registration
This year, we’re implementing a minimal registration fee of $50. The fee is instrumental in offsetting the costs associated with travel logistics, online platforms, the extensive hours dedicated to research, meticulous preparation, and the ongoing correspondence that happens behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience for all participants. By registering, you’re not only securing your spot but also actively supporting iFishiBelong’s core mission. We aim to create and sustain affordable opportunities in the realm of fishing and exploration. Through this registration fee, we can continue to organize a diverse range of cost-effective events and trips, catering to individuals from various financial backgrounds. Your contribution directly empowers us to widen our reach and offer enriching experiences to all people.
Refunds: This registration is non-refundable. If you’re unable to attend the event after registering, your fee will be considered a donation supporting iFishiBelong’s mission-driven work.
What's Included
- An Exclusive Webpage Established Specifically for Registered New York Participants.
- It includes event logistics, packing tips, fishing details, etc.
- Choice Between a Hat or T-Shirt ($25 US Value)
- Interactive Live Q&A Session 8/19/24
- Online Access to the “Fall Trout Fishing Techniques” Live on 8/5/24 or Pre-Recorded Class
- Nightly Social Events
- Guided/Private Water Opportunity for Saturday 10/5/24
- Register HERE
- Detailed Location & Fishing Research Compiled for Easy Participant Reference
- Dedicated Co-Hosts Focusing on Education, Community, Fun
- Commitment to Support Local Businesses and Highlight Women and Underrepresented Owners and Guides in the Region
- 20% Off TroutRoutes Pro Account
What's Not Included
- Transportation to and from Wilmington, NY
- Accommodation/Camping Options
- Meal Arrangements
- Fishing Gear
- Equipment Lending Options Available
- Fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” Form HERE
- New York Fishing License
- 4hr “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop on Friday 10/4/24
- Register HERE
- Guided Fishing Opportunities
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
We are excited to offer two primary scholarships for the New York Fish and Hang event. Each scholarship includes full event registration, enrollment in the 4-hour “Fishing New York North Country” workshop on Friday, October 4th, 2024, a guided fishing day with private water access to the Ausable River, the guide tip, and a New York weekend fishing license.
Connect in the Facebook Group
We have created a Facebook Group specific to this weekend’s event. Please utilize this group to ask questions and connect with other women to fish with over the weekend. This will be the location to which the co-hosts will post additional event information. Join the Facebook Group HERE.
Travel
Wilmington, New York, is a small town situated in the Adirondack Mountains, approximately 12 miles north of Lake Placid and near Whiteface Mountain. The nearest airports are Burlington (BTV), approximately 2 hours away; Albany (ALB), about 2 hours and 30 minutes away; Montréal (YUL), around 2 hours away; and JFK, which is about 5 hours from New York City.
Lodging
In an effort to make this weekend affordable to all, we have arranged a discounted lodging rate with Hungry Trout Resort. Call and reserve your room today at the special iFishiBelong rate. There are also several areas to camp. See below for suggestions in the area.
Camping
There are several campgrounds near Wilmington, New York, offer a range of camping experiences:
- Draper’s Acres Campground – Situated a few miles from Wilmington, it provides tent and RV camping with amenities such as a swimming pool and playground.
- KOA Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain – Located near Wilmington in the town of Wilmington, this KOA offers tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, along with amenities like a pool, mini-golf, and fishing.
- Wilmington Notch Campground – Just 3 miles south of Wilmington, this state-run campground features tent and trailer sites, fishing access, and proximity to hiking trails.
Saturday SOCIAL FISHING DAY
Experience an incredible opportunity to fish a legendary and remote section of the Ausable River, home to the largest and wildest fish in the watershed. We’ve hired four expert guides, including Rachel Finn, to help you navigate the river, choose the best flies and leader setups, and successfully land your catch. This exclusive opportunity is limited to 12 anglers, with each guide assisting you on 800 acres of private land. We have created two guided options based on your fishing experience. Register HERE.
- For newcomers to fly fishing seeking hands-on experience. Guided day with a 2-to-1 angler-to-guide ratio.
- For those needing guidance on local river knowledge and assistance with landing catches. Guided day with a 4-to-1 angler-to-guide ratio.
Included –
- Cost of Guide, Taxes, and Credit Card Processing Fee
- Private Water Access to the Bush Country
Not Included –
- Guide Tip (25% Cash Recommended)
- Travel to and from Wilmington, NY. We can all carpool from the Hungry Trout Resort early morning.
- New York Fishing License.
- Fly Fishing Equipment and Flies (Equipment Available to Borrow)
- Food and Snacks
Fishing
Fishing in Wilmington, New York, offers an exceptional experience for anglers of all skill levels. Nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Wilmington is renowned for its pristine waterways, including the Ausable River, which is celebrated for its abundant trout population. The West Branch of the Ausable River, in particular, is famous for its fly fishing opportunities, with a variety of species such as brook, brown, and rainbow trout thriving in its clear, cold waters.
The river’s diverse landscape, featuring pools, riffles, and runs, provides an engaging challenge for fly fishers. Wilmington also boasts numerous lakes and ponds, where anglers can fish from the shore or a boat. These waters are home to a variety of fish, including bass, pike, and perch, ensuring a rewarding experience for those who prefer stillwater fishing.
Fishing License
A New York fishing license is required. You can purchase one HERE.
Fishing Equipment
Each angler is expected to bring their own equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by September 30th if you wish to borrow equipment. Click HERE.
Diy Fishing
Please mark your calendars for the Live Q&A Session on August 19th at 6:00 pm ET, where we’ll explore weekend logistics and share local fishing information. The Fish and Hang events require some preparation and proactive involvement. To ensure participants are well-informed, each registrant will be granted access to a dedicated event webpage designed for all registrants. This resource will assist you in organizing and planning your trip effectively.
Hire a Fishing Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. If you need last-minute gear and professional guidance for the weekend, check out these two local fly shops where you can find everything you need and hire a knowledgeable fishing guide.
"Fishing New York North country" Workshop
The “Fishing New York North Country” workshop offers participants an in-depth exploration of techniques and tactics specifically tailored for the iconic Ausable River and its surrounding areas in the New York North Country region. This workshop is designed for advanced beginner and intermediate anglers. Participants are encouraged to have basic foundational knowledge of fly fishing. Before the workshop, attendees will have access to pre-recorded online classes, ‘Intro to Fly Fishing’ and ‘Reading Trout Water’, to prepare for the hands-on session. No equipment is required for the workshop.
Workshop Topics –
- Ausable River Access Points
- Intermediate Fly Fishing Knots and Leader Set-Ups for Each Technique
- Match the Seasonal Ausable River Hatches
- ABCs of Fly Fishing
- How to Approach the Water for Each Technique
- Searching vs Targeting
- Mending Demonstrations
- Casting Drills for Each Technique
Education Opportunities
- Live Q&A Session: August 19th, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm ET
- Dive into event logistics and gain valuable fishing information.
- Register HERE.
- Engage on Facebook:
- Join the New York Fish and Hang Facebook Group.
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer the questions.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity:
- Participate in the “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop.
- Led by Rachel Finn, Heather Hodson and Joanne Hessney.
- Duration: 4 hours.
- Learn More HERE.
- Live Q&A Session: August 19th, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm ET
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Safety Policy
For the safety of all, if you show any signs of illness or have a positive test result, kindly remain at home. Stay informed about the weather, dress for the occasion, and stay alert to any shifts in water conditions.
Questions
Email us at [email protected] with any questions.
Weekend Disclaimer
We aim for a memorable weekend, emphasizing community for everyone present. Educational resources will be available, and connections among anglers encouraged. We expect a drama-free setting and clarify that while co-hosts will be around, the weekend is self-guided. Attendees can coordinate fishing plans with other participants via the Facebook Group. This is not an exclusive women’s weekend. Partners, friends, and family are encouraged to join.
