Saturday, June 23, 2012, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm (rain or shine)

If you've had the pleasure of strolling by the Harlem Meer lately, you probably enjoyed a scenic view that was hard to imagine twenty years ago, when the land lay in deterioration. Since 1993, the Central Park Conservancy has made incredible efforts to restore this forgotten landscape with the introduction of native plant and fish species. The now-flourishing habitat supports many species of wildlife including largemouth bass, pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill sunfish, carp and chain pickerel.

Celebrate fish and learn about aquatic ecology at this free family event. Featuring a build-a-fish craft, catch-and-release fishing, microscopic explorations of the Meer with the New York Microscopial Society, and storytelling performances of "The Magic Goldfish" at 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm by Play me a Story.

Note: Saturday, June 23 and Sunday, June 24, 2012 are designated New York State "Free Fishing Days." During these days, no license is required to fish at the Harlem Meer. All are welcome! We recommend catch & release fishing for ages 5+.

Free. No advance registration required. For more details about this event, including day-of weather related changes and accessibility information, please call 212-860-1370.