The Beat

Birmingham, Ala. — Like the waters anglers love, the rankings of America's best bass fisheries can surge or ebb, and the 2023 Bassmaster Magazine 100 Best Bass Lakes list is a true reflection of those fluctuations.

In addition to last year's No. 1 — the St. Lawrence River — which slid one spot, overall New York had six lakes on the Top 100 list — Lake Erie/Upper Niagara River, Champlain, Cayuga, Oneida and Chautauqua.

New Yorkers Encouraged to Explore Opportunities Close to Home during Free Freshwater Fishing Days

Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers to take advantage of the year's second Free Fishing Weekend on June 24 and 25, when New York State waives the requirement for a freshwater fishing license. Fishing is considered one of the most therapeutic outdoor activities, making it an ideal activity for all New Yorkers looking to get outside and enjoy the outdoors.

Consider these spots when planning your next fishing trip in Ulster County!

Ulster County, N.Y. - The Catskills of Ulster County boast some legendary fishing, thanks to an abundance of lakes, rivers, and creeks, along with ideal weather conditions (trout, we are talking to you finicky bunch). This fishing is an irresistible draw for anglers from all over the world. But which spot is right for you?…

Wilmington, NY (May 1, 2023) - The Ausable Two-Fly Challenge will bring more than 100 anglers to the Adirondack region of upstate New York from May 18-20. Organizers are encouraging those who’d like to take part to register early, as the event is quickly rebounding to pre-pandemic levels. Once again, the event will take place along the West Branch Ausable River, stretching from Lake Placid to Wilmington; a river that is world-renowned among fly fishing enthusiasts.

Waddington, NY.  - The 20^th Annual St. Lawrence International Jr. Carp Tournament will be held August 3 – 5, 2023.  To commemorate this milestone, organizers are planning additional highlights; to include inviting all Grand Champions to return, along with many others who were instrumental in its popularity and success throughout the years, beginning in 2003. The tournament takes place on the banks of the St. Lawrence River along a 30 miles stretch of New York’s northern border, stretching from Massena to Ogdensburg, testing the skill and techniques of young carp anglers over two days.

Anglers have Opportunity to Freshwater Fish Without a License from February 18 to 19

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the 2023 dates for Free Freshwater Fishing Days in New York. The requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during the following six days this year: February 18 to 19; June 24 to 25; National Hunting and Fishing Day, September 23; and November 11.

Freshwater Fishing License Requirement Waived for Residents and Non-Residents

Free Fishing Day is One of Many Ways New York State Recognizes and Assists Veterans and Active Duty Military in Connecting to the Outdoors

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York State is honoring veterans with a statewide Free Fishing Day on Friday, November 11. Selected to coincide with Veterans Day, November 11 will mark the final Free Fishing Day of the year. Fishing is considered one of the most therapeutic outdoor activities, making it an ideal activity for veterans, those currently serving in the military, and all New Yorkers looking to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. 

Addition to HUNTFISHNY App Makes Fishing in New York State Easier and More Enjoyable

Unparalleled Mobile Access to Fishing Regulations, Waterbody Information, Species Identification, Stocking, and Much More

App Complements Existing Efforts to Simplify Fishing and Attract More Anglers to New York's Renowned Fishing Destinations

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the State's new 'Tackle Box' mobile phone feature to enhance fishing-related tourism by making it easier for new and experienced anglers to enjoy the great fishing offered throughout New York. The new Tackle Box feature builds on the State Department of Environmental Conservation's HuntFishNY smartphone app to provide a one-stop location for nearly all State fishing regulations, waterbodies, State-operated fishing access sites, stocking information, and other useful features like photos to help identify fish likely found in a certain river, lake, or stream.

With Year-Round Trout Seasons, April 1 Marks End of Catch-and-Release-Only and Start of Harvest Season

More Than 1.8 Million Trout Being Stocked Statewide

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced the upcoming start of the spring trout fishing season, which provides excellent angling opportunities statewide thanks to the State’s extensive stocking program and considerable number of wild trout fisheries. DEC’s spring trout stocking begins in March and runs through early June, and includes more than 1.8 million trout stocked in waters statewide. 

Trout Stocking Events Planned throughout Long Island in March and April

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) will hold the annual Spring Family Fishing Festival on Saturday, April 2, at Belmont Lake State Park. Additional sponsors for the fishing festival include the Natural Heritage Trust, The Fisherman Magazine, New York Life, Seaford Knights of Columbus Fishing Club, Art Flick Chapter Trout Unlimited, and radio stations 106.1 WBLI and 102.3 WBAB.