Fishing in New York

World-class fishing draws anglers from around the globe to experience the Empire State's impressive waterways, home to over 165 species of fish. 

Freshwater fishing opportunities reward experts and novices alike with bass, trout, salmon, northern pike, muskies, and walleye. In fact, New York is home to six of the Bassmaster's top 100 bass lakes (with the St. Lawrence River topping the list in 2022). Lake Ontario and its tributaries, including the Salmon River, offer world-class sportfishing, and if you're fortunate, you may reel in a steelhead, Chinook, or walleye. The crystal clear lakes and streams of the Adirondack and Catskill parks make the great state of New York home to the very best fly-fishing east of the Rockies. For those who enjoy saltwater angling, the famous shorelines of Long Island boast prized species like striped bass, bluefish, and fluke. 

From deep sea fishing to ice fishing, from the Great Lakes to small ponds, New York is the premier location for anglers to experience the thrill of their next big catch. Download the HuntFishNY app and check out the new Tackle Box feature to find fishing regulations, waterbodies, fish species and stocking information, and more all in one spot! New York State also provides anglers with six Free Fishing Days each year.

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