Name: Hemlock Lake North Boat Launch
Start: 2026-08-16T09:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-08-16T14:00:00-04:00
Location: Hemlock Lake North Boat Launch

Question 1

What should I do if I reserved a spot but can not attend the event?

Accepted Answer

We have a wait-list for most of our events.  If you can not attend, please cancel your reservation as soon as possible so that we can offer your spot to another participant.

Question 2

Do I need to bring anything with me?

Accepted Answer

No.  We have all gear that is required for the day.  Please be aware of the weather and dress appropriately.    We will have light snacks in the morning along with water and sports drinks.  A full meal will be provided at noon time.  If you want to bring your own fishing gear, you are welcome to.

Question 3

Is there an age limit?

Accepted Answer

No.  We have had children as young as young as 3 and adults as old as 90 participate.  If you feel comfortable with having your child on a kayak, we are happy to support them.  If you feel that you are "too old", you are NOT!

Question 4

Do I need a fishing license?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  You will need a NYS fishing license.   For license information, go to... https://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6091.html

Question 5

Do I need to complete any forms?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  Media Waiver - https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/6a6e527c205b40e39fc81ccf368e84a1
Liability Waiver - https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/b257cf92fac64ed3952b29ac820367a5

Question 6

If I have never fished, will there be someone to help me learn?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely!  Many of our on-the-water volunteers are members of the NY Kayak Bass Fisherman organization and are tournament level fishermen.  They love to help people learn how to fish.

Question 7

If I have never kayaked, will someone help me?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  We have a large volunteer team of kayakers that will instruct you on the safe and proper way to control your boat and will be available on the water to assist in any and every way.

Question 8

Do you ever cancel events?

Accepted Answer

We have never cancelled an event.  We carefully monitor the weather conditions (especially wind).  As long as it is safe to kayak, the event will go on.  In a worst case scenario, we might have to change a location at the last minute.   If that happened, we will make sure that you know.

Question 9

How do you ensure our safety at an event?

Accepted Answer

We have and require use of personal floatation devices for every participant as well as provide safety whistles.  Also, we have a ratio of one on-the-water volunteer for every two participants, so you will never be too far away from expert support.

Question 10

If I get tired and need a break during the event, is that an option?

Accepted Answer

100%.  We have participants all the time that come back to shore for a break and then head back out on the water, or just hang out with the on-the-shore crew.  We always have volunteers on shore to hang out with.

Question 11

Can I bring a friend who is not a veteran or first responder?

Accepted Answer

Yes, definitely.  We want this event to be perfect for you in every way.

Question 12

If I have any physical limitations, can you support them?

Accepted Answer

Yes we can, to the best of our abilities.  We have boats that are paddle, pedal, and motorized.  If we know of a special need, we will do everything that we can to accommodate that.  Please let us know asap.

Question 13

Do I have to squish down inside one of those tiny traditional kayaks?

Accepted Answer

No. All of our kayaks are sit-on-top style, very stable, and as comfortable as your favorite lawn chair.  They are very easy to get into and out of.  If you need a hand, we have a crew that will help.

Question 14

Is this event really free, or is there a catch?

Accepted Answer

There is no catch!  All of our funding comes from donations in and around our local region and remain in our region specifically to support our veterans, first responders, and their families.

Question 15

If I don't want to fish, can I still kayak?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  The magic is the water and the camaraderie.  Catching fish is just the excuse we use to get out on the water ;^).

Hemlock Lake North Boat Launch

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