The Beat

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced today that Saturday, June 26 and Sunday, June 27, is a Free Fishing Weekend in New York State, the second of six Free Fishing Days recognized across the state each year.

"As the school year closes out and the summer officially begins, the timing of New York's upcoming Free Fishing Weekend couldn't be better," Governor Cuomo said. "Whether you're returning to the angling as an expert, introducing a friend or family member, or casting a line for the very first time, Free Fishing Weekend is the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand all the benefits of fishing."

During designated free fishing days, New York residents and non-residents are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license.

Top Quality Bass Fishing Opportunities Available throughout New York State

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the harvest season for largemouth and smallmouth bass opens Saturday, June 19. These two species, also known as black bass, are New York's most popular freshwater sportfish, and account for 31 percent of total freshwater angling effort in the state.   

"New York is home to some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation and every year, anglers from around the world visit our waters looking for their next big catch," Governor Cuomo said. "With the black bass season beginning on June 19, I encourage anglers of all skill levels to consider casting a line in New York's waters and experience all the natural beauty that the Empire State has to offer."…

“On the Water: Angling Adventures” Showcases Erie Canal & World-Class NY Fishing Opportunities Enhanced by the Reimagine the Canals Initiative

The New York State Canal Corporation today announced the Reimagine the Canals initiative was recently featured on the NBC Sports program “On the Water: Angling Adventures.” The television show highlighted the successful launch of a pilot program that strategically used water from the Erie Canal to enhance already renowned fishing opportunities in Western New York during the fall of 2020. The full episode can be found here.

Early Spring Fishing Opens Throughout New York State on May 1st  

Season Begins for Walleye, Northern Pike, Pickerel, and Tiger Muskellunge   

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the fishing season for popular coolwater species such as walleye, northern pike, pickerel, and tiger muskellunge begins on Saturday, May 1. With early spring offering many great opportunities, the state Department of Environmental Conservation is encouraging new and experienced anglers alike to fish in waters throughout New York.

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."…