The Beat

April 1 Kicks Off Trout Season and Implementation of New York State Trout Stream Management Plan

1.8 Million Catchable-Size Trout to be Stocked in New York Waters

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that trout fishing season in New York State opens on Thursday, April 1. In preparation for opening day, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is stocking 1.8 million catchable trout in waters across the state. In addition to larger size fish being stocked this year, some stream reaches will receive four stockings of trout.

New Yorkers Can Fish Without a License Across New York State on February 13-14

DEC Urges New Yorkers to Practice Ice Safety While Outdoors

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today encouraged New Yorkers to take advantage of the upcoming first Free Fishing Weekend of 2021, on February 13 and 14, when anglers are permitted to fish for free without a license.

"New York is home to some of the best lakes, ponds, rivers and streams in the world, all offering exceptional fishing opportunities all year round," Governor Cuomo said. "As the nation continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, families are seeking outdoor activities that don't break the bank or require extensive travel, and this Free Fishing weekend is a perfect option for anglers of all experience levels to enjoy the very best that the Empire State has to offer."…

Hague, NY – February 1, 2021 – The Annual Hague Fish & Game Club Winter Fishing Tournament will be held on February 27^th and 28^th in coordination with the Town of Hague. The event will take place whether or not there is ice. Participants can fish on Lake George, Lake Champlain, Schroon Lake, Brant Lake, Eagle Lake, or Paradox Lake. Categories will include Lake Trout, Perch, Salmon and Pike.

The weigh-station will be located at the Hague Fish & Game Club at 488 West Hague Road in Hague, NY. Weigh-in will take place Saturday, February 27^th from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sunday, February 28^th from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Awards will be handed out at 4:00 PM following the closing of the weigh-in station.

DEC Encourages Anglers to Fish 'SMART' to Protect Resources and Other Anglers

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that the Lower Fly-Fishing Section of the Salmon River will be open for catch-and-release fishing starting Saturday, Oct. 31, marking the success of actions taken by the Salmon River Flow Management Team to mitigate the impacts of low-water flows at the start of the salmon run. Recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19 remain in effect to ensure the health and safety of the public.

Regulated Water Releases from the Erie Canal into Lake Ontario Tributaries Increases Opportunities for World-Class Fishing

Pilot Program as part of the Reimagine the Canals Initiative will Boost Tourism and Businesses in Monroe, Orleans, and Niagara Counties

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the start of a new pilot program, as part of the Reimagine the Canals initiative that uses water from the Erie Canal to enhance already renowned fishing opportunities in Western New York. Originally announced as part of the Governor's State of the State address in January 2020, the program will encourage New Yorkers and visitors to experience the state's Canal system in a different way, while also expanding tourism and bolstering small businesses in the region.

New Yorkers Fish without a License on National Hunting and Fishing Day

Freshwater Fishing in New York Generates Estimated $2.14 Billion in Economic Activity Annually, Supports Nearly 11,000 Jobs Statewide

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York residents can fish for free on Saturday, September 26, which is National Hunting and Fishing Day, celebrated each year to promote outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and target shooting.

"It's no secret that early autumn offers some of the best fishing opportunities on the calendar, and New York is teeming with some of the best lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams in the Northeast just waiting to be explored," Governor Cuomo said. "Fishing is a tradition in my family and in families across New York State, and I encourage everyone from experienced anglers to those who have never fished before to participate in this Free Fishing Day and spend some time together outdoors."…

Improved DECALS Includes User-Friendly Features to Help Hunters Find License Sales Outlets, Keep Track of Licenses, and Harvest Information

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced the launch of the State’s new system for the sale of fishing, hunting, and trapping licenses. The new DEC Automated Licensing System (DECALS) includes user-friendly information to help users locate vendors, receive instant copies of a license, enter and view harvest information, and more.

All New Yorkers Encouraged to Explore Local Fishing Opportunities

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced a Free Fishing Weekend for June 27 – 28. The event is the second of six Free Fishing Days offered in New York State every year.

Opportunities Abound for New York’s Most Popular Freshwater Sportfish

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner (DEC) Basil Seggos announced today that the traditional harvest season for Largemouth and Smallmouth bass opens on June 20 and closes Nov. 30. In most waters, there is also a catch and release season starting on Dec. 1, and continuing until the start of the regular season, during which anglers can fish for bass using artificial lures. There are special fishing regulations for some waters, and  York anglers should check the current fishing regulations guide before heading out to fish.

New York Anglers Encouraged to Get Outside Safely, Practice Social Distancing during COVID-19 Public Health Crisis

State Stocking More than 2.2 Million Catchable-Size Trout in New York Waters

Sportfishing in New York Generates Estimated $2.14 Billion in Economic Activity Each Year

State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded New Yorkers that trout and salmon fishing season opens on Wednesday, April 1. New York’s coldwater lakes and streams offer springtime trout anglers the opportunity to pursue trout in a wide array of settings across the state. During the current COVID-19 public health crisis, getting outdoors and connecting with nature while angling in New York’s waters is a great way to help maintain mental and physical health.