new york freshwater fishing guide

New York

FishingreshwaterF

Most regulations are in effect October 1, 2013 through September 30, 2014

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

www.dec.ny.gov

2013 14 OFF IC IAL ReguL At IOns guIdeV O L u m e 6 , I s s u e n O . 1 , O C t O b e R 2 0 1 3

CatskillsFly Fishing the

Message FroM the governor

New Yorks Open for Hunting and FishingWelcome to another great freshwater fishing season in New York, home to an extraor-dinary variety of waterbodies and diverse fisheries. From the historic Hudson River to the majestic Great Lakes, and with hundreds of lakes and thousands of miles of streams from the Adirondacks to the Fingers Lakes, New York offers excitement and challenges for anglers that cannot be beat! The Bass Anglers Sportsman Society selected five of our waters Cayuga Lake, Oneida Lake, Lake Champlain, Thousand Islands/St. Lawrence River and Lake Erie for their list of the Top 100 Bass Waters of 2013, with the last two listed in the top 20. This years guide is focused on trout fishing in the Catskills, also a nationally renowned destination for trout anglers.

We continue our efforts to make New York, which is already ranked 2nd in the United States for recreational fishing economic impact, even more attractive as a tourism destination. My New York Open for Fishing and Hunting initiative will simplify the purchase of sporting licenses in 2014 and, most importantly, reduce fees. In addition, we will spend more than $4 million to develop new boat launches and fishing access sites so we can expand opportunities for anglers.

Over the past three years New York invested $2.5 million in the development of new boat launching facilities on Cuba Lake in Allegany County, the Upper Hudson River in Saratoga County, Lake Champlain in the City of Plattsburgh, and two new facilities on Lake Ontario - Point Peninsula Isthmus and Three Mile Bay, both in Jefferson County. Major upgrades were also completed on the Woodville Boat Launch on Canandaigua Lake, the Horicon Boat Launch on Schroon Lake, and the Northville Boat Launch on Great Sacandaga Lake. Weve also made improvements to our hatchery system, including a new visitor center at the states Rome Fish Hatchery.

Fishing is a great way to enjoy New Yorks unparalleled outdoor recreation oppor-tunities. Research has shown that people involved in the sport of fishing also enjoy other outdoor sports such as hiking, camping and wildlife watching. A particular interest of mine is to encourage our children to enjoy nature. I cant think of a better way to do this than by introducing them to the sport of fishing. I recently signed legis-lation that will expand the number of free sportfishing clinics in New York offered by organizations designated by the Department of Environmental Conservation. These clinics will help people learn about fishing and, most important how much fun they can have fishing in New York waters!

Best of luck on your fishing adventures. If youre fishing in New York youve already made a great catch!

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

ContentsStOp tHe Spread OF INvaSIve SpecIeS 2

HIgHlIgHtS OF cHaNgeS 4

lIceNSe INFOrmatION 6

NYS eNvIrONmeNtal cONServatION pOlIce Q&a 8

Feature: maNagINg tHe trOut FISHerIeS OF tHe catSkIllS 10

StatewIde aNglINg regulatIONS 14

SpecIal regulatIONS: regION 1 17




New YOrk cItY reServOIr regulatIONS 23

tIdal HudSON rIver regulatIONS 24

BOrder waterS regulatIONS 25

Feature: FlY FISHINg tHe catSkIllS 26


lake cHamplaIN regulatIONS 35




FINger lakeS aNd trIButarY regulatIONS 45


great lakeS aNd trIButarY regulatIONS 48

geNeral regulatIONS 53

BaItFISH regulatIONS 57

deFINItIONS 60

weIgH YOur FISH wItH a ruler 62

New YOrk State aNgler acHIevemeNt awardS 63

HealtH advISOrIeS 67

eNvIrONmeNtal cONServatION OFFIcerS 72

FreSHwater FISH IdeNtIFIcatION 74

puBlIc FISHINg rIgHtS 76

catcH & releaSe guIdelINeS 77

dec FISH HatcHerIeS 78

FuNdINg FISHerIeS maNagemeNt 80

Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Joe Martens, Commissioner Kathy Moser, Assistant Commissioner for Natural ResourcesPatricia Riexinger, Director, Division of Fish, Wildlife & Marine Resources Phil Hulbert, Chief, Bureau of Fisheries How to contact us: NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Bureau of Fisheries 625 Broadway Albany, NY [email protected]: www.dec.ny.gov

Main cover photo: Rondout Creek (Ulster County), Ed Ostapczuk.Inset cover photos: Esopus Creek & brook trout, Ed Ostapczuk;

fisherman, Jason Dole.Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources Mission: The mission of DECs Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources is to serve the interests of current and future generations of New Yorkers by using our collective skills, in partnership with the public, to describe, understand, manage and perpetuate a healthy and diverse assemblage of fish, wildlife and ecosystems.

State OF New YOrk

Using this gUide1. Review the Statewide Angling Regulations.

page 14

2. Review the special regulations section which begins on page 16 and includes regulations for specific waters (ie. Lake Champlain) or group of waters (ie. Great Lakes). IF THE WATER YOU INTEND TO FISH IS NOT LISTED IN THIS SECTION, STATEWIDE ANGLING REGULATIONS APPLY.

3. Review: General Regulations page 53 Baitfish Regulations page 57 Definitions page 60

4. Consult the License Information section to determine if you need a fishing license. page 6

5. Review the NYS Environmental Conservation Police Q&A section which provides answers to some of the more frequently asked questions concerning the information in this guide. pages 8, 17, 31 and 33

6. Review Health Advisories. page 67

If you have any questions or are unsure of any regulations, call or e-mail the nearest DEC regional office. Contact information can be found in the Special Regulations section of the guide. pages 16-46

This guide is a summary that is intended for convenience onlyfor a complete reference, consult New York State Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) and Volume 6 of the Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York (NYCRR). Copies can be reviewed at the nearest library with a State Supreme Court refer-ence section, on-line at www.assembly.state.ny.us/leg/ for ECL and www.dec.ny.gov/regs/2494.html for NYCRR, or by contacting a Regional DEC Division of Law Enforcement Office.

201314 FreshWater Fishing gUide 1

This high-quality regulation guide is offered to you by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation through its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.

J.F. Griffin is an award winning publishing housethat specializes in producing state fish and wildliferegulation books. J.F. Griffin supports the DECs staff in the design, layout and editing of the guides. They also manage the marketing and sales of advertising to appropriate businesses within the book.

The revenue generated through ad sales significantly lowers production costs and generates savings. These savings translate into additional funds for other important fisheries and habitat programs.

If you have any feedback or are interested in adver-tising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or online at www.JFGriffin.com

About this Guide

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430 Main St. Suite 5 | Williamstown, MA 01267

available online in a new Digital Edition!

Graphic Design:Jon Gulley, Erin Murphy, Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski and Dane Fay

2 201314 FreshWater Fishing gUide

J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC is proud to print the official New York Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide on post-consumer recycled paper.

NEW YORK

FISHINGreshwaterF

Most regulations are in effect October 1, 2013 through September 30, 2014

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation www.dec.ny.gov

2013 14 OFF IC IAL REGUL AT IONS GUIDEV O L U M E 6 , I S S U E N O . 1 , O C T O B E R 2 0 1 3

CatskillsFly Fishing the

For more inFormation For more information on aquatic invasive species and preventing their spread go to: www.dec.ny.gov/animals/48221.html, or scan this QR code with a smartphone.

anglers and BoatersHelp Stop the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and Fish Diseases

12

3

inSPeCt your boat, trailer and other fishing and boating equipment, and remove all mud, plants and other organisms that might be clinging to it. Never release plants, fish or animals into a body of water, unless they came out of that body of water.

Drain anD DrY everything that came into contact with water. Many aquatic invasive species and fish diseases are microscopic and can be transported in as little as a drop of water. Dry boats for at least 5 days and other equipment for at least 48 hrs before use in another waterbody. Difficult-to-dry gear may require even longer drying times. Recommended drying times for each month of the year can be calculated at 100thmeridian.org/emersion.asp. Be sure to completely drain your boat, including baitwells and livewells.

DiSinFeCt equipment if you cannot or do not have the time to dry it before using it in another waterbody. Effective disinfectants include water at least 140 F (hotter than most hot tap water) or steam, 2% bleach solution (3 ounces of household bleach mixed with 1 gallon of water), or household cleansers such as Fantastik, Formula 409, or Spray Nine that contain the ingredient alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride. For all materials, follow label instructions and be sure to soak equipment for a minimum of 10 minutes. Dispose of all cleaning/disinfectant solutions away from surface waters in accordance with label restrictions.

Fish diseases such as viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) and invasive species such as the zebra mussel and Eurasian water milfoil can be spread through the use of boating and fishing equipment that has not been properly cleaned, dried or disinfected prior to its use in another waterbody. Help stop the spread of these noxious species and diseases by adhering to the following simple guidelines.

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marine recreational Fishing regulationsRecreational fishing regulations for marine fish species are subject to frequent changes in response to rapid changes in fishing conditions and development of interstate management strategies for these species. For complete and accurate information on current New York marine recreational fishing regulations, contact the DEC Bureau of Marine Resources, Finfish and Crustacean Unit (631) 444-0435 or visit the DEC website at: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7894.html. Anglers 16 years and older desiring to fish in the marine and coastal district or for migratory marine species must enroll in the no fee Recreational Marine Fishing Registry (see page 6).

FREE Fishing DaysJune 2829, 2014

During the last weekend in June anyone can fish the fresh or marine waters of New York State and no license is required!

Since no license is required, its the perfect time to take a friend or relative fishing.

For more information, contact a Regional DEC Fisheries Office. For a list of DEC-sponsored Fishing Clinics, contact a DEC Regional Fisheries Office or go to: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27123.html

Fishing Hotlines

Central New York (607) 753-1551

Orleans County (585) 589-3220

Lake Erie (Dunkirk) (716) 679-ERIE

Lake Erie (Buffalo) (716) 855-FISH

Niagara County (877) FALLS US

Southeastern New York (845) 256-3101

Wayne County (315) 946-5466

DEC Web Hotlines www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishhotlines.html

New York State facilities are available to all persons without regard to race, color, national origin or physical disability in accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This guide is a summary that is intended for convenience only. For complete informa-tion, consult New York State Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) and Volume 6 of the Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York (NYCRR). Copies can be reviewed at the nearest library with a State Supreme Court references section or by contacting a regional Division of Law Enforcement Office. They can also be found online at www.assembly.state.ny.us/leg/ for ECL and www.dec.ny.gov/regs/2494.html for NYCRR. Be sure to see Using This Guide (page 1) and review Highlights of Changes below.

Highlights of changes Note: Changes are highlighted in green throughout the guide. Use or possession of alewife or blueback herring on the Mohawk River is now prohibited. The daily limit for alewife and blueback herring on the Hudson River has been reduced. Changes have also been made to the manner of taking of alewife and blueback herring in the

Hudson River by angling and personal use nets.

For your Boat & EquipmentINSURANCE COVERAGE

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Optional fi shing guide coverageTournament coverage

Fishing equipment coverage Policies subject to limits and exclusions.

Fishing Regs NY_4c_2.25x2.indd 1 5/29/13 5:12 PM

Did you know? ...In 2012, DEC ForestRangers put out more than177 fires affecting almost 2,146acres. Rangers trained 1,446community firefighters inwildfire control techniques.

...DEC Forest Rangers areexperts on all aspects of thestate land they patrol. Ask aRanger where to hunt, fish,hike, camp or see wildlife!

...DEC Forest Rangers issuepermits for camping on statelands and administer thelicensed guide program.

www.dec.ny.gov518-408-5850

New York State DepartmeNt of eNviroNmeNtal CoNServatioN


neW YorK state dePartMent oF environMentaL Conservation

Seamus Dutcher with a nice brown from the Mohawk River.

Stay Current with DEC Get email updates on more than 130 topics Subscribe and set your preferences easily Add or remove topics from your list at any time www.dec.ny.gov

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Resident Senior (70+)/Military Disability1 $ 5

Annual Fishing $ 29

7 Day Fishing $ 15

1 Day Fishing $ 5

Sportsman2 $ 47

Sportsman (Senior 70+) $ 10

Super Sportsman3 $ 88

Conservation Legacy4 $ 96

Non-ResidentAnnual Fishing $ 70

7 Day Fishing $ 35

1 Day Fishing $ 15

Super Sportsman3 $ 280

Lifetime LicensesLifetime Sportsman2 (age 4 or younger) $380

Lifetime Sportsman2 (age 511) $535

Lifetime Fishing $460

Senior Lifetime Fishing (70+) $65

1 For specifics concerning this license type, call 518-402-8843. 2 License type that allows the holder to hunt small and big game, and to freshwater fish. 3 License type that allows the holder to hunt small and big game and freshwater fish, plus

bow hunting, muzzleloader hunting and turkey hunting. 4 License type that includes super sportsman license, subscription to New York Conservationist

magazine and a Habitat and Access Stamp. The Habitat and Access Stamp is a voluntary stamp. Revenues go into a dedicated account within the Conservation Fund and are used for projects that protect and improve habitat, and provide access for fishing, hunting and other wildlife-related recreation.

license requirementsEveryone must have a valid fishing license in their possession while fishing or helping someone to fish except: Persons under 16 years of age. NYS-resident owners, lessees and members of their immediate

families occupying and cultivating farm lands, when fishing on their own lands.

Persons holding farm fish pond licenses and members of their immediate families, when fishing on waters covered by their licenses.

Resident patients at Dept. of Mental Health institutions and Dept. of Health rehabilitation hospitals, and inmates at Division of Youth rehabilitation centers. License exemptions must be requested for such persons through the hospital/institution by writing NYSDEC License Sales Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4790, or by e-mailing [email protected].

When fishing on licensed fishing preserves.

Free licensesThe following individuals are eligible for a free fishing license and may obtain a license at any license issuing outlet: New York State residents who are blind. New York State residents who are active service members of the

NYS Organized Militia (i.e., National Guard), or U.S. Reserve Forces. New York State residents stationed outside of New York who are

on full time active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and are on leave in NY for no longer than 30 days.

Resident patients at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals or state funded facilities can obtain a free fishing license through their hospital or facility.

Native Americans who are members of the Shinnecock and Poospatuck tribes or the Six Nations residing on reservations in New York State may obtain a free fishing license by contacting their reservation or DECs License Sales Office at (518) 402-8843.

lost license replacementA lost license may be replaced for $5.00 for each license type at any license issuing outlet.

recreational marine Fishing registryAnglers 16 years of age and older who desire to fish in the marine and coastal district of New York, or for migratory marine species such as striped bass, hickory shad, and river herring from all waters of the state including the Hudson River and Delaware River must enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. General provisions include: There is no fee for residents or non-residents to register. (See resident

licenses on page 7 for residency requirement). Registration is effective from January 1 through December 31 each year. Anglers may register at any sporting license issuing agent, by phone,

or by Internet as noted on page 7, under Purchasing a License.

please do not laminate your license. the heat from this process will cause it to become unreadable. please note: Effective February 1, 2014, the structure of hunting,

fishing, and trapping licenses and the fees charged for these licenses will change. Licenses purchased prior to February 1, 2014, and privileges associated with those licenses, remain in effect through their valid dates. Please check the DEC website www.dec.ny.gov for an updated list of licenses and associated fees. Anglers Under the Age of 16

Anglers under the age of 16 are not required to have a fresh-water fishing license or enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.

Lifetime LicensesBuy a lifetime license and never worry about future fee increases. Lifetime licenses are available only to New York State residents, but remain valid even if you move out of state.

Lifetime licenses can now be purchased at all license issuing outlets. For more information, visit DECs website or contact us at:

license Sales unit NYSDEC

625 Broadway Albany, NY 12233-4790

(518) 402-8843


LiCense inForMation

License Requirements for Border WatersDoes a New York State fishing license entitle holder to fish the out-of-state portion of waters listed below?

Water State/Province Yes/NoLake Ontario Ontario No

Lake Erie Ontario, Pennsylvania No

St. Lawrence River Ontario, Quebec No

Niagara River Ontario No

Lake ChamplainQuebec No

Vermont Yesa

Delaware River & West Branch Delaware River (along boundary)

Pennsylvania Yes

Greenwood Lake New Jersey Yesb

Indian Lake Connecticut Yesb

a All Vermont portions of Lake Champlain with the exception of The Inland Sea (including The Gut), Malletts Bay, Missisquoi Bay and all rivers. (See map on page 35)

b New York license permits fishing out-of-state portion from boat or ice only.

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License or Registry Requirements for Fishing in the Tidal Hudson River or Marine and Coastal District

Location Species Fishing For License or Registry

North of Tappan Zee Bridge

Freshwater Species

Freshwater Fishing License

Migratory Marine Species

Recreational Marine Fishing RegistrySouth of

Tappan Zee Bridge (marine and coastal district)

All Species

For additional information concerning the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry, contact the DEC Bureau of Marine Resources at (631) 444-0435 or visit the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/permits/54950.html.

license privileges Persons holding a freshwater fishing license or combined hunting and fishing license (including those entitled to fish without a license) may take fish by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, nets, traps and tip ups; take frogs by spearing, catching with the hands or by use of a club or hook; and take baitfish for personal use, all as permitted by law or DEC. The holder of a license, tag or stamp shall have such license, tag or

stamp on his/her person while exercising any privilege of that license. The holder of a license, tag or stamp shall exhibit it on demand to any

police officer, peace officer, or the owner, lessee or other person in control of the lands or waters on which the license holder is present.

No license or stamp authorizes the holder to trespass upon private lands or waters or interfere with property belonging to another person.

resident licensesTo qualify for a resident license, one must reside in New York State for more than 30 days immediately preceding the date of application for a license. Property ownership in New York State is not a residency requirement.

Residency is a fixed, permanent and principal home to which a person (regardless wherever temporarily located) always intends to return. Proof of residency is the address listed on a persons registra-tion to vote in elections for any public office other than school board. If applicant is under 18, the residence of parents or legal guardian shall be deemed such persons residence.

Active members of the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in the state, and full-time college students in residence in the state during the school year (proof required) also qualify for resident licenses.

purchasing a licenseFishing licenses may be purchased at license issuing agents (town and county clerks, some major discount stores and many tackle shops and sporting goods stores) throughout New York State. Licenses may also be purchased online through DECs Automated Licensing System (DECALS), by calling 1-86-NY-DECALS. VISA and MasterCard are accepted. For further information, go to www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6101.html. Resident license buyers also must have a NYS drivers license, learners permit or non-drivers ID for online purchases.

Note: Periodically, DEC or its designated agent(s) may use contact information from license holders to communicate with license holders and to conduct surveys and research involving New York State fish and wildlife. The information obtained will provide public input on fish and wildlife management actions and human interactions with New Yorks fish and wildlife resources.


LiCense inForMation

TOLL-FREE 24-HOUR DEC DISPATCH CENTER: 1-877-457-5680

Q: The Statewide Regulations indicate that the walleye season runs from the first Saturday in May through March 15. Can I fish for walleye on March 15?A: Yes. The walleye season runs through March 15 and

closes at midnight. Note that in the regulations guide, a dash () is often used instead of the word through.

Q: If trout season opens April 1, what time may I start fishing?

A: Anytime after 12 midnight.

Q: Who do I contact if I have a question concerning a fishing regulation?A: We strongly recommend that you contact the law enforcement office in the DEC region covering the water where you fish. Phone numbers and e-mail addresses for each DEC region can be found in the Special Regulations section of the guide.

Q: Do I need a fishing license to help my child fish?A: Unlike states such as Pennsylvania that have a specific law thatwaives thefishing license requirement for anadult directly assisting a child, New York State does not have such a law. We strongly encourage children to get involved in the sport of fishing and discretion will be used as long as the child is actively involved in the fishing activity. If in the eyes of an Environmental Conservation Officer an adult ismore actively involved in the fishing activity than the child that they are supposedly instructing, acitation for fishing without a license could be issued.

Q: If I fish on a private lake or on a pond or stream on my property, do I need a fishing license?A: Yes. Unless you are the owner of a pond on an active farm, hold a farm fish pond license, or are an immediate family member of the owner or licensee, you must have a fishing license.

Q: If I get a ticket for fishing without a license, how much will it cost?A: The fine amount is determined by the court. They may impose a fine from $0 to $250 and/or 15 days in jail.

Q: Can I keep my fishing license in my vehicle when I am fishing so it doesnt get wet.A: No. You must be in possession of your license when fishing.

Q: Can I continue to fish once I have caught and kept my daily limit? A: Yes. As long as you immediately release any additional fish you catch, you may continue to fish after reaching the daily limit.

Q: Does this mean that I cant cull fish during a bass tournament?A: No. A special provision is provided for black bass anglers that allows the replacement of a single, uninjured largemouth or smallmouth bass in a livewell with another bass.

Q: The trout season is closed on my favorite stream; can I still fish for trout if I release all of the fish that I catch? A: No. It is illegal to target a fish during its closed season.

Q: How about catch-and-release fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass can I do that during the closed season?A: Yes. A special catch-and-release season running from December 1 through the Friday preceding the third Saturday in June exists for many waters in New York State. This allows an angler to catch and immediately release a bass using artificial lures only. However, there are exceptions to this regulation on Long Island and in many northern New York counties in DEC regions 5 and 6.

Q: If the daily limit for a particular species is five fish and I keep five from a lake, can I keep another five from another lake?A: No. The legal limit represents the maximum number of a species you can keep in a day. After reaching the legal limit, you cannot keep any more of that species on the same day. Note that some species such as trout, bass and panfish are lumped together in a species category, and the daily limit applies to the total number of fish kept in that category. For example, you may keep three brook trout and two rainbow trout for a total of five trout in a day, but you may not keep five brook trout AND five rainbow trout in the same day.

Q: If DEC stocks fish in a stream, a portion of which is private, do I have the right to fish for these fish on private land?A: No. Many stocked streams have both private and public segments. Although fish are typically stocked only in segments open to the public, the fish can swim into private sections. In these circumstances, unless DEC has purchased public fishing rights (PFR) from the landowner, you must ask permission of the landowner to legally fish on private land. PFR segments are posted with yellow signs.

Q: Do I have the right to fish a stream bordering a public road?A: If the stream is on private land, you may not fish it. Although the stream may be bordered by a public road or road easement, the stream bottom can be privately owned. Therefore, you must ask permission of the landowner to legally fish the stream.

Additional Q&As can be found on pages 17, 31, and 33.

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Reaching Out to Kids with Special NeedsEnvironmental Conservation Officers and Fish and Game Club volunteers introduced 35 children with physical and mental disabilities to the sport of fishing at the Saratoga County 4-H Training Center on June 1, 2013. The kids enjoyed a great day of fishing education and got the chance to catch many different species, including rainbow trout, bass and bluegill. A free lunch was provided for the children and their families, and each child was given a rod and reel to take home at the end of the day. The event was sponsored by the New York State Conservation Officers Association, the Saratoga County 4-H, Hannaford Supermarket, Saratoga Tackle, Bobs Bait, and multiple Saratoga County Fish and Game Clubs.

A quick reference to some of the more commonly asked questions concerning New York State fishing regulations.


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of the CatskillsManaging the Trout Fisheries

DEC staff and volunteers complete an electrofishing survey of Esopus Creek.


The Catskill Region has thousands of miles of streams, along with numerous small ponds, lakes and large reservoirs. Although best known for outstanding trout fishing, the region also offers excellent fishing for bass, walleye, chain pickerel and a variety of panfish. The region covers all or parts of Ulster, Sullivan, Delaware, Schoharie and Greene counties, and includes the Catskill Park at its center.

The Catskill Park contains over 705,000 acres of private and public land. More than half of the acreage within the park is open to the public. Its proximity to Albany and New York City make the Catskill Park very popular for recreation. Maintaining qual-ity fishing in this heavily used region is a challenge met through a carefully crafted program that provides angler access, protects habitat and effectively manages the fishery.

Providing Fishing AccessThe Catskill Regions popularity for trout fishing grew rapidly in the late 19th Century as railroads led to increasing tourism. By the early 20th Century, significant portions of the regions best trout waters were privatized and closed to public fishing.

Recognizing this problem, New Yorks Conservation Department (DECs predecessor) started the Public Fishing Rights (PFR) program in 1935. Under the PFR program, DEC purchases permanent fishing easements on privately owned streams throughout the state. Since

1935, more than 1,300 miles of easements have been acquired on 340 streams through the PFR program. More information on the program, including how landowners can participate, is on page 76. Maps of the Departments PFR holdings can be found on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9924.html .

In addition to state-owned land and fishing easements, a significant amount of land along Catskill streams and reservoirs is owned by New York City. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) operates six drinking-water reservoirs in the Catskills totaling 23,560 acres. Access to city property for fishing is free, but requires an access permit. Information about access permits and recreation on NYCDEP lands can be found at www.nyc.gov/dep under Watershed Recreation.

Surveying the FisheryPrior to developing a plan for managing a water body, DEC fisheries biologists use fishery and creel surveys to determine the status of the existing fishery. Fishery surveys are usually completed using electrofishing gear.

Electrofishing temporarily shocks a fish, allowing biologists to take length and weight information prior to releasing the fish unharmed. In certain cases, scales may be removed from the captured fish. Scale rings, or annuli, are counted to age the fish, similar to the way tree rings are counted to age a tree. In the Catskill region, fishery surveys have been conducted since the 1920s, providing excellent insight into how stream fisheries have responded to vari-ous management strategies.

Creel surveys involve counting and interviewing anglers to estimate catch rates, harvest rates, fishing pressure and the pres-ence of stocked and wild fish. Creel and fishery surveys are often used to evaluate the effectiveness of stocking policies or fishing regulation changes.

A major effort to document the presence of brook trout was recently completed in and around the Catskill Park as part of the Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture, a collaborative program involving 17 eastern states. Over a four year period, 3,528 stream surveys were

(Continued on page 12)


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conducted by DEC staff. Brook trout were documented in 1,227 of these surveys. Knowing where these brook trout populations exist will allow DEC to protect their habitat and monitor changes in their abundance.

StockingMany of New Yorks publicly accessible streams receive brook, brown or rainbow trout raised in New York State hatcheries. Most of these trout are stocked as one-year-olds and average about eight inches in length.

Fisheries biologists have found that brown trout often outperform brook and rainbow trout in Catskill streams, so the bulk of the trout stocked are browns. The Catskill Fish Hatchery, located near the Beaverkill and Willowemoc Creek in Sullivan County, produces 115,000 pounds of brown trout annually and supplies most of the browns stocked in the Catskills. Many streams are also supplemented with two-year-old brown trout that are 12 to 14 inches in length (and sometimes larger).

Using information collected in fishery and creel surveys concerning the presence of wild trout, trout growth rates, and angler use, stocking policies are developed . Stocking policies are calculated using the Catch Rate Oriented Trout Stocking model (CROTS). The CROTS model uses various assumptions concerning fishing pressure, trout harvest, natural mortality and stream carrying capacity to calculate a stocking rate. This model is now over 20 years old and DEC is currently working with the NY Fish and Wildlife Cooperative Research Unit at Cornell University to test if the assumptions used in the original model are still valid. As part of this study, detailed fishery and creel surveys are being conducted on nine streams across the state, including Esopus Creek in the Catskill Region. These surveys will determine whether the number of trout in a stream and catch rates are consistent with those predicted by the CROTS model. Adjustments will be made to the model if necessary.

Special Fishing RegulationsFor most waters in the Catskills, trout season runs from April 1 through October 15 with a limit of five fish per day of any size. In most instances, this regulation does a good job of protecting the fishery, while giving people who want to keep their catch a chance to do so. However, stricter regulations on the number and size of fish that can be taken have been used in some places to improve the fishing experience for people looking to catch larger fish. Catch and release fishing regulations on sections of the Beaverkill and Willowemoc Creek have allowed many quality size fish to be caught despite heavy fishing pressure.

Wild Trout ManagementMany Catskill streams, especially headwater sections protected within the Catskill Forest Preserve, have populations of naturally reproduc-ing wild trout. These populations maintain themselves and do not

require stocking, but they do need to be protected from habitat loss and overfishing. Anglers can find wild populations of brook, brown and rainbow trout throughout the Catskills. Of these three species, only brook trout are native to New York. Brookies have the least tolerance for warmer water and often lose out when competing with brown and rainbow trout in all but the coldest streams. Nonetheless, brook trout still thrive in Catskill streams with the right habitat. In Delaware County alone, DEC fisheries surveys from 2007-2011 found more than 580 streams with brook trout.

Brook trout were once common in small cold ponds and lakes in the Catskills. Unfortunately, once competing fish species found their way into these waters, usually through the use of baitfish and illegal stockings, brook trout populations declined or were eliminated. For this reason, DEC prohibits the use of baitfish on many brook trout ponds in the Catskills and other parts of New York. Once compet-ing fish species become abundant in a brook trout water, the only management option that will restore quality brook trout fishing is the complete renovation of the pond and restocking of brook trout. When possible, a native strain of brook trout that is best adapted to the water it is to be stocked in is used in restocking efforts.

Habitat ProtectionA key to what has made trout fishing in the Catskills famous is the high-quality aquatic environment. Catskill streams and reservoirs are blessed with an abundance of clean, cold water. Maintenance of this water supply is essential to the health of these ecosystems. Fortunately, most of the high elevation lands where the sources of these waters are located are in state ownership, ensuring their protection. Trout waters also receive special protection through the Protection of Waters Act. Actions that could degrade water quality or trout habitat are prohib-ited without a permit granted by DEC for special circumstances, like repairs to a stream after flooding.

A major concern in the Catskill Region is the proper use of heavy equipment in streams when it is necessary to repair flood damage following major storms. This concern was heightened during recovery efforts following Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee in 2011. Lessons learned from past mistakes and advances in science and engineering have helped DEC develop best practices for working in streams. This knowledge helps DEC issue stream-work permits that minimize detrimental effects on habitat.

Reservoir Tailwater FisheriesRegulations require that the operators of some of the largest reservoirs in the Catskills maintain minimum flows below their dams. The old river beds that at one time received natural stream flow before the reservoirs were built, now receive a managed flow of water throughout the year. These river sections are called tailwaters. Water released through these dams is usually from deep in the reservoir and remains cold even during hot summer periods. Depending on the volume released, water temperature in a tailwater stream can remain favorable for trout for miles downstream. DEC works closely with all concerned

to ensure that the flows necessary to maintain quality trout popu-lations are provided through as much of the year as possible. As a result, tailwater streams such as the East and West Branch Dela-ware River and Neversink River provide some of the finest trout fishing in the Catskills.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the DECs Bureau of Fisheries and various other agencies, angling groups and individual anglers, New Yorks Catskills remain one of the finest trout fishing destina-tions in the country.

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Statewide angling regulationsSpecies Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit

TroutBrook, Brown and Rainbow and hybrids of these species; and Splake

April 1 through Oct 15 Any size 5

Lake Trout April 1 through Oct 15 21" 3

Landlocked (LL)/ Atlantic Salmon

April 1 through Oct 15 15" 3

It is illegal to take Atlantic Salmon from the waters of the marine and coastal district.

Kokanee April 1 through Oct 15 Any size 10

Coho & Chinook Salmon See Great Lakes Regulations on pages 48-52.

Black Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth)

3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 12" 5

Dec 1 through Fri preceding the 3rd Sat in June

Catch and release only

Artificial lures only

Muskellunge 3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 30" 1

Northern Pike 1st Sat in May through March 15 18" 5

Pickerel 1st Sat in May through March 15 15" 5

Tiger Muskellunge 1st Sat in May through March 15 30" 1

Walleye 1st Sat in May through March 15 15" 5

Crappie All year 9" 25

Atlantic, Shortnose & Lake Sturgeon; Paddlefish

Closed Fishing for and possession prohibited

Lake Whitefish All year Any size 5

Striped BassHudson River and all inland waters except Delaware River

(see page 25)March 16 through Nov 30 18" 1

American ShadFishing for (including catch and release) or possessing American shad

in the Hudson River or Marine District is prohibited.

Hickory Shad Aug 1 through Nov 30 Any size 5

Anadromous River Herring (Alewife and Blueback Herring)

Possession prohibited except in Hudson River and tributaries (see page 24).

Yellow Perch All year Any size 50

Sunfish (Bluegill, Pumpkinseed and Redbreast Sunfish)

All year Any size 50

American Eelall waters except Hudson River, St. Lawrence R., L. Niagara R., Lake Ontario and tributaries to these waters.

All year 6 50

All endangered or threatened fish species Fishing for and possession prohibited

All other species (except those listed elsewhere in special

regulation tables in this guide).All year Any size Any number

A person may not fish for a species (not even Catch-and-Release) outside of the open season for that species on a given water.

the following statewide angling regulations apply to all waters for which special regulations have not been estab-lished. Special regulations for specific waters follow on pages 1652.

stateWide angLing regULations


head


Special Regulations

the following pages are a list of exceptions to the StatewIde aNglINg regulatIONS.

Trout waters where ice fishing is permitted are identified here.

Regulations that appear in the Method column pertain to all fishing in the listed water.

A between dates in the Open Season columns represents through and includes the ending date.

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region 1 Long isLand

Q: How many rods or lines may I use when fishing?A: Anglers are permitted to use three lines when fishing.

Q: Is it legal to use the Alabama Rig or other multiple-bait rigs?A: Yes. As long as the number of lures or baits does not exceed five and the total number of hook points on the rig does not exceed 15. However, some special regulations limit the number of lures, baits, attractors and hook points on specific waters.

Q: If I spend multiple days fishing in New York, may I transport more than the legal daily limit when I return to my home state?A: You may transport twice the daily limit for fish such as trout, black bass and crappie that have a daily catch limit. There are exceptions for processed and packaged fish or when a permit has been obtained from a DEC regional office. However, live fish may not be transported in excess of the legal daily limit and may not be stocked into another waterbody.

TOLL-FREE 24-HOUR DEC DISPATCH CENTER: 1-877-457-5680

New York State

eNviroNmeNtal CoNServatioN PoliCe


Nassau county

Water Species Open Season Minimum LengthDaily Limit Method

All waters

Crappie All year 9" 15Sunfish (Bluegill &

Pumpkinseed)All year Any size 15

Yellow Perch All year 8" 15

Pickerel1st Saturday in May through March 15

18" 3

All waters Black Bass1st Sat in June through

April 30Catch and release only

Note: It is illegal to fish for bass during

the period May 1 thru Friday preceding the

1st Sat in JuneAll ponds and lakes Trout All year Any size 3

All streamsBrown & Rainbow

TroutAll year Any size 3

Brook Trout April 1 Sept 30 Catch and release only

Suffolk county


All waters

Crappie All year 9" 15Sunfish (Bluegill and

Pumpkinseed)All year Any size 15

Yellow Perch All year Any size 15

All waters except, Belmont Lake, Artist Lake, Blydenburgh Lake, Randall Pond

Black Bass

1st Sat in June through Nov 30

12" 5Note: It is illegal to fish for bass during

the period May 1 thru Friday preceding the

1st Sat in JuneDec 1 through April 30 Catch and release only

Fort Pond and Lake Ronkonkoma

Walleye1st Sat in May through

Mar 1518" 3

Blydenburgh Lake Black Bass

1st Sat in June through Nov 30

12" 5

Dec 1 through Fri before 1st Sat in June

Catch and release only

Artist Lake, Belmont Lake, Randall Pond

Black Bass All Year Catch and release only

All freshwater (non-tidal) lakes and ponds except East (Swan) Lk, Laurel Lk, Deep Pd.

Trout All year Any size 3 Ice fishing permitted

East (Swan) Lake Trout April 1 through Nov 30 10" 3Laurel Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Deep PondTrout All year 12 3

Ice fishing permittedChain Pickerel All year Catch and release only

All freshwater and tidal streams except Carmans River in Southhaven County Park, Connetquot River in Connetquot River State Park and Nissequoque River in Caleb Smith State Park

Brown & Rainbow Trout

All year Any size 3

Brook Trout April 1 through Sept 30 Catch and release only

Connetquot and Caleb Smith State Parks

TroutPark Regulations apply, permit required. Call (631) 581-1005 Connetquot,

(631) 265-1054 Nissequogue.Carmans River (Southaven County Park)

Brook Trout April 1 through Sept 30 Catch and release only

Carmans River (Southaven County Park)

Special Regulations by River Section. Additional park regulations may apply. Call (631) 854-1414.

From LIPA transmission lines at Gate G upstream to Yaphank Avenue

Trout April 1 through Sept 30 Catch and release only Fly fishing only

From Cement Dam upstream to LIPA transmission lines at Gate G


April 1 through Sept 30 9" 3 Fly fishing only

From Cement Dam down-stream to Hards Lake Dam


April 1 through Sept 30 9" 3

region 1Stony Brook University50 Circle RoadStony Brook, NY 11790-3409(631) [email protected]

Recreational Marine Fishing RegistryAnglers 16 years and older desiring to fish in the marine and coastal district or for migratory marine species must enroll in the no fee Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.

See www.dec.ny.gov/permits/54950.html for details.

region 2 neW YorK CitY

Steve Wong with a nice largemouth bass caught from Oakland Lake, Queens

Sportsmen Education make sure you qualifyAll first-time hunters, bowhunters or trappers planning to go afield this upcoming hunting and trapping season must first complete a hunter or trapper education course before they can get a license in New York.

For previously licensed hunters who plan to hunt out of state, let this be a reminder to check with the state you plan to hunt in to see what requirements need to be met. All states accept New Yorks hunter education course but states differ on what is required as proof of completion. Many will need to see your original

Hunter Education Certificate in order to purchase their license. Check to see if you have your certificate, replacements can be time consuming.

All courses are free of charge, and as hunting seasons approach, classes fill quickly. SIgN up earlY!

To locate a nearby class and course list visit DECs website or contact a local DEC regional office.

18 sPeCiaL regUL ations BY CoUnt Y

Special fishing regulations for waters in New York city.

Water Species Open SeasonMinimum

length Daily limit Method

Bronx Indian Lake, Crotona Park; Van Cortlandt Lake

All Species except

snakeheadsAll year

Catch and release fishing only.All fish, except for snakeheads, shall be returned to the water

immediately. See Snakehead Alert information below for instructions on handling a snakehead you have caught.

Kings (Brooklyn) Prospect Park Lake

New York (Manhattan) Central Park- all waters

Queens Baisleys Pond, Kissena Lake, Meadow Lake, Oakland Lake, Willow Lake

Richmond (Staten Island) Brooks Lake, Clove Lake, Willow-brook Lake, Wolfes Pond

region 21 Hunters Point Plaza47-40 21st StreetLong Island City, NY 11101-5407(718) [email protected]

region 3 soUtheastern neW YorKdutchess county


All rivers and streams except Hudson River from Troy Dam downstream and all tributaries in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish

Black Bass

3rd Sat in June through Nov 30

10" 5

Dec 1 Fri preceding the 3rd Sat in June

Catch and release only Artificial lures only

Hudson River from Troy Dam down-stream and all tributaries in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish

Black Bass See Tidal Hudson River Regulations on page 24.

Upton Lake, Sylvan Lake Trout All year Any size 5Ice fishing permitted

Wappinger Creek downstream of dam in Pleasant Valley

Trout All Year Any size 5

Indian LakeBlack Bass,

PickerelSee Border Waters Regulations on page 25.

Morgan Lake Trout All year Any size 3Ice fishing permitted

Orange county


All rivers and streams except Hudson River from Troy Dam downstream and all tributaries in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish & Delaware River

Black Bass


10" 5

Dec 1 Fri preceding the 3rd Sat in June


Hudson River from Troy Dam down-stream and all tributaries in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish


Askoti, Hessian, Round, Blue, Skannatati and Walton Lakes

Trout All Year Any size 5Ice fishing permitted

Bashakill MarshPickerel All year 15" 5

Black Bass All year 12" 5

Sterling Lake Lake Trout April 1 through Oct 15 21" 1Use or posses-sion of baitfish

prohibitedDelaware River, Greenwood Lake All Species See Border Waters Regulations on page 25.Mongaup River from Rio Dam down-stream to Route 97 bridge

Trout April 1 through Oct 15 12" 3 Artificial lures only

Ramapo River Trout All year Any size 5

putnam countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method


Black Bass3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 10" 5



Hudson River from Troy Dam downstream and all tributaries in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish


Bog Brook Reservoir, Boyd Corners Reservoir, Croton Falls Reservoir, Diverting Reservoir, East Branch Reservoir, Middle Branch Reservoir, West Branch Reservoir, Lake Gilead, Lake Gleneida

Lake Trout, Trout, Walleye See NYC Reservoir Regulations on page 23.

East Branch Croton River from Diverting Reservoir to East Branch Reservoir

Trout All year 14" 1 Artificial lures only

West Branch Croton River from Croton Falls Reservoir to East Branch Croton River

Trout April 1 through Sept 30 Catch and release only Artificial lures only

West Branch Croton River from West Branch Reservoir to Croton Falls Reservoir

Trout April 1 through Sept 30 9" 5

White Pond Walleye 1st Sat in May through March 15 18" 3 Ice fishing permitted

rockland countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method


Black Bass






Ramapo River Trout All year Any size 5Hessian Lake Trout All year Any size 5 Ice fishing permitted


region 321 S. Putt Corners RoadNew Paltz, NY 12561-1696(845) [email protected]

region 3 soUtheastern neW YorKSullivan county

Water Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

All rivers and streams except the Delaware River Black Bass3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 10" 5



Delaware RiverTrout, Black Bass, Muskel-lunge, Pickerel, Walleye

See Border Water Regulations on page 25.

Bashakill MarshPickerel All year 15" 5

Black Bass All year 12" 5

Basket Creek and tributaries, Callicoon Creek from mouth to Hortonville, Hankins Creek and tributaries from mouth to Falls at Mileses, Hoolihan Brook and tributaries, North Branch Callicoon Creek and tributaries from mouth to Gossweyler Pond above North Branch, Pea Brook and tributaries

Trout1st Sat after April 11 through

Sept 30Any size 5

Beaver Kill from State Road 206 (County Route 7) bridge in Delaware County downstream, Willowemoc Creek from iron bridge at Parkston downstream except section below

Trout April 1 through Nov 30 9" 5

Willowemoc Creek 1200 ft. above mouth of Elm Hollow Brook downstream 3.5 miles to second Route 17 Quickway bridge east of Roscoe

Trout All year Catch and release only Artificial lures only

Neversink River, from Neversink Reservoir downstream, except as listed below

Trout April 1 through Oct 15 9" 5

Neversink River and tributaries within the Neversink River Unique Area and owned by the people of the State of New York situated in the Towns of Thompson and Forestburgh and abut-ting that reach of the Neversink River from its confluence with Mercer Brook south to the Sullivan-Orange County line, except any portion thereof where the right to fish is privately owned.

Trout April 1 through Oct 15 Catch and release only Artificial lures only

Crystal Lake, Hodge Pond Trout April 1 through Sept 30 10" 3Use or possession of baitfish

prohibitedLake Huntington, Loch Sheldrake Trout All year Any size 5 Ice fishing permitted

Mongaup River from Rio Dam downstream to Route 97 bridge Trout April 1 through Oct 15 12" 3 Artificial lures only

Mongaup Pond* Trout All year Any size 5Ice fishing permitted

Use or possession of baitfish prohibited

Neversink Reservoir, Rondout Reservoir Lake Trout, Trout See NYC Reservoir Regulations on page 23.Swinging Bridge Reservoir Walleye 1st Sat in May through March 15 18" 3 Ice fishing permitted

White LakeLake Trout All year 15" 3

Ice fishing permittedTrout All year Any size 5

* In addition, the use or possession of baitfish is prohibited in Mongaup Creek downstream of Mongaup Pond.

ulster countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

All waters except Hudson River Walleye 1st Sat in May through March 15 18" 3







Alder Lake, Echo Lake Trout April 1 through Sept 30 10" 3 Use of fish as bait prohibitedAshokan Reservoir, Rondout Reservoir Lake Trout, Trout, Walleye See New York City Reservoir Regulations on page 23.Honk Lake Trout April 1 through Nov 30 Any size 5 Ice fishing permittedEsopus Creek (other than below) Trout April 1 through Nov 30 Any size 5Esopus Creek from Shandaken tunnel outlet (Allaben) to Ashokan Reservoir

Trout April 1 through November 30 Any size5 with no more than

2 longer than 12

westchester countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method







Amawalk Outlet from Amawalk Reservoir to Muscoot Reservoir

Trout April 1 through Sept 30 12" 3 Artificial lures only

Amawalk Reservoir, Cross River Reservoir, Kensico Reservoir, Muscoot Reservoir, New Croton Reservoir, Titicus Reservoir

Trout See NYC Reservoir Regulations on page 23.

West Branch Croton River from Croton Falls Reservoir to East Branch Croton River

Trout April 1 through Sept 30 Catch and release only Artificial lures only

Titicus Outlet Trout April 1 through October 15 Any size5 with no more than 2 longer

than 12


region 4 east CentraL neW YorK


region 465561 State Highway 10Suite 1Stamford, NY 12167-9503(607) [email protected]

albany county


Hudson River from Troy Dam upstream to Bakers Falls in the Village of Hudson Falls and tributaries in this section to first barrier impass-able by fish, Mohawk River below Route 32 bridge

All Species All year

Catch and release fishing only. All fish shall be returned to the water immediately.

Baitfish listed on page 57 may be possessed for use as fish bait. Use of tip-ups is permitted.



Thompsons Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Normans Kill from Watervliet Reser-voir downstream to the first barrier impassable to fish upstream of the Hudson River

Black Bass


10" 5

Dec 1 through Fri preceding the 3rd

Sat in JuneCatch and release only Artificial lures only

columbia county




Queechy Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permittedKinderhook Creek, from Adams Crossing downstream

TroutApril 1 through

Nov 30Any size 5

delaware countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

All streams and their tributaries that flow into the Delaware River in Delaware County downstream of Hancock


Sept 30Any size 5

All unlisted tributaries to Pepacton Reservoir and to East Branch Delaware River upstream from Pepacton Reservoir highwater mark

Trout April 1 through Sept 30 Any size 5

Bush Kill, Tremper Kill, Terry Clove, Fall Clove, Platte Kill, Dry Brook, Batavia Kill Trout April 1 through Sept 30 9" 5

Trout Pond (Cables Lake), Huggins Lake Trout April 1 through Oct 1512" 2 Artificial lures only Use or possession of baitfish is prohibited

Launt Pond Trout April 1 through Oct 15 10" 3

Big Pond, Little Pond Trout All year 12" 3Ice fishing permitted

Mud Pond Trout April 1 through Oct 15 12" 3Cannonsville Reservoir, Pepacton Reservoir Trout See NYC Reservoirs Regulations on page 23.Beaver Kill from State Route 206 (County Route 7) bridge downstream except sections below:


Beaver Kill: 1) from Sullivan County line (below Roscoe) downstream 2.5 miles to the old railroad trestle and 2) from one mile upstream to 1.6 miles downstream of iron bridge at Horton

Trout All year Catch and release only Artificial lures only

Beaver Kill from Iron Bridge at Horton downstream to first Rt. 17 overpass Angling prohibited July 1 through August 31 to protect thermally stressed trout

East Branch Delaware River Special Regulations by River Section below:

From Pepacton Reservoir highwater mark upstream Trout April 1 through Sept 30 9" 5

From Pepacton Dam downstream to Shinhopple BridgeTrout April 1 through Oct 15 12" 2

All angling prohibited from Oct 16 through March 31 to protect spawning Trout

From Shinhopple Bridge downstream to the mouth at Hancock TroutApril 1 through Oct 15 12" 2Oct 16 through Nov 30 Catch and release only

All streams and their tributaries that flow in to the East Branch of the Delaware River between the villages of East Branch and Hancock


Oct 15Any Size 5

West Branch Delaware River Special Regulations by River Section below:

From Cannonsville Reservoir highwater mark upstream Trout April 1 through Sept 30 9" 5

From Cannonsville Dam downstream to the Route 17 overpass at DepositTrout April 1 through Oct 15 12" 2

All angling prohibited from Oct 16 through March 31 to protect spawning trout

From Route 17 overpass at Deposit downstream 2.0 milesTrout April 1 through Oct 15 Catch and release only Artificial lures only

All angling prohibited from Oct 16 through March 31 to protect spawning trout

From the lower limit of catch-and-release section in Deposit downstream to NY/PA border (1.7 miles below Hale Eddy Bridge)

Trout April 1 through Oct 15 12" 2

All Angling prohibited from Oct 16 through March 31 to protect spawning trout

Delaware River and West Branch Delaware River forming NY/PA borderBlack Bass, Trout,

Muskellunge, Pickerel, Walleye

See Border Waters Regulations on page 25.

region 4 east CentraL neW YorK


greene countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Hudson River from Troy Dam downstream and all tributar-ies in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish


Greens Lake, Colgate Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

montgomery countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Beardsley Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Schoharie Creek Black Bass




Otsego countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Arnold Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Basswood Pond Trout April 1 through Oct 15 10" 3

Canadarago Lake Yellow Perch All year Any size 25

Gilbert Lake Trout April 1 through Nov 30 12" 3

Goodyear LakeYellow Perch All year Any size 25

Sunfish (Bluegill, Pump-kinseed, Redbreast)

All year Any size 25

Otsego Lake

Brown Trout All year 18" 1

Ice fishing permittedLL Salmon All year 18" 1

Lake Trout All year 23" 1

Susquehanna River from Otsego Lake Dam to Goodyear Lake

Trout April 1 through Oct 15 Any size

3 in any combinationLL Salmon April 1 through Oct 15 15"

Lake Trout April 1 through Oct 15 21"

rensselaer countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Hudson River from Troy Dam downstream and all tributar-ies in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish


Glass Lake Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Hoosic River, Little Hoosic River Trout April 1 through Oct 15 9" 5

Kinderhook Creek, Adams Crossing downstream Trout April 1 through Nov 30 Any size 5

Hudson River from Troy Dam upstream to Bakers Falls in the Village of Hudson Falls and tributaries in this section to first barrier impassable by fish, Mohawk River below Route 32 bridge

All Species All yearCatch and release fishing only. All fish shall be

returned to the water immediately.

Baitfish listed on page 57 may be possessed for use

as fish bait. Use of tip-ups is permitted.

Hudson River upstream of Lock C-4 and its associated dam, near Stillwater, NY

Use or possession of alewife or blueback herring prohibited

Second Pond, Long Pond, Shaver Pond Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Tomhannock Reservoir Ice Fishing Season Jan 1 through March 15, daylight hours only. Fishing by permit only (available from City of Troy)

Schenectady countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Schoharie Creek from Route 20 bridge upstream Black Bass3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 Any size 5



Schoharie Creek from Route 20 bridge downstream Black Bass3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 10" 5



Schoharie countyWater Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Mallet Pond Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permitted

Schoharie Creek from Schoharie Reservoir downstream to Route 20 bridge

Black Bass3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 Any size 5



Schoharie Creek from Route 20 bridge downstream Black Bass3rd Sat in June through Nov 30 10" 5



Schoharie Reservoir Trout See New York City Reservoir Regulations on page 23.

Holding Pond Trout April 1 though October 15 10" 3

New York city reservoir regulations

Respect the Sport of Angling

It is the anglers responsibility to entice the fish to strike the bait or lure. It is this challenge that makes angling a lifetime sport.

The sport of fishing is based upon the experience of fishing, not the number of fish taken.

The sport of angling is based upon the concept of fair chase. Fish are not fairly taken when confined by low water levels or temperature conditions.

Ethical fishing is not limited to any particular method or technique as long as fish are enticed to bite under fair chase conditions.

Remember Adults Teach by Example, Children Learn by Observing ALWAYS be aware of the example that you are setting. The future of our sport depends upon it!


neW YorK CitY reservoir regULationsA free New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Public Access Permit is required to fish New York City reservoirs. In addition, all anglers 16 years of age or older must possess a valid New York State fishing license. All DEP permits issued prior to 2002 are no longer valid and a new permit must be obtained. For those 18 years of age or older, permits can be obtained online at www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/watershed_protection/recreation.shtml. Permits can also be obtained by completing an application and mailing to: NYCDEPAccess Permits, 71 Smith Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401. Guest passes are also available for those who would like to accompany an access permit holder onto water supply lands but do not want to obtain their own access permit. Access permits and applications can be obtained online or by visiting a DEP office or police precinct, town hall or sports/tackle shop within the watershed. In New York City, applications are available during normal business hours at: DEP Central Office 96-05 Horace Harding Expressway Corona, NY (718) 595-4595

through Columbus Day. A pilot program now also allows the use of electric trolling motors on fishing rowboats on Cannonsville Reser-voir. All boats must be registered and cleaned prior to being launched. Details about these expanded recreational boating opportunities can be found at www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/recreation/cannonsville_boating_program.shtml

dep Offices Ashokan Reservoir (845) 657-2663

Schoharie Reservoir (607) 588-6231

Rondout and Neversink Reservoirs (845) 334-7152

Cannonsville and Pepacton Reservoirs (607) 363-7009

East of Hudson Reservoirs (914) 232-1309

For additional information, contact DEP at: [email protected] or call 1-800-575-LAND (5263)

Reservoir Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit Method

Amawalk Bog Brook Cross River Diverting Middle Branch Muscoot Titicus

Trout All year 12" 3Ice fishing permitted

Croton Falls Trout All year 18" 1Ice fishing permitted

Lake Gilead Lake Gleneida

Lake Trout All year 21" 3 Ice fishing permittedTrout All Year Any size 5

Boyd CornersEast Branch

Trout All year 12" 3 Ice fishing permittedWalleye 1st Sat. in May through March 15 18" 3

West Branch

Lake Trout All year 21" 3Ice fishing permitted

Trout All year 12" 3

LL Salmon All year 18" 1

KensicoLake Trout All year 18" 3


New Croton Schoharie


RondoutLake Trout April 1 through Nov 30 18" 3


AshokanTrout April 1 through Nov 30 12" 3

Walleye 1st Sat. in May through March 15 18" 3

Cannonsville Trout April 1 through October 15 12" 3

NeversinkTrout April 1 through October 15 12" 3

Smelt Smelt fishing prohibited

Pepacton Trout April 1 through Sept 30 15"2 fish to include only

1 over 21"

DEPs Bureau of Customer Conservation Services in Manhattan 1250 Broadway, 8th Floor New York, NY (212) 643-2215

Boating for the purposes of fishing is allowed on NYC reservoirs to those with the appro-priate DEP permits. Anglers must store their fishing boats at designated storage areas. All boats must be approved and registered with DEP. Some of the over 240 boat storage areas may at times be closed to the placement of new boats due to overcrowding and maintenance needs; several are currently closed. People who want to register a new boat must first obtain a valid Access Permit and then call the DEP Office near the reservoir of interest to make a steam-cleaning and registration appointment. There is no cost for this service, which must be performed by DEP.

NYC DEP allows non-motorized recre-ational boating on a day use basis in Cannon-sville, Neversink, Pepacton and Schoharie Reservoirs. This day use recreational boating season opens on Memorial Day and runs

Statewide regulations apply to all species not listed in the above table.

tidal Hudson river regulationsStatewide Angling Regulations apply except as listed below:

Species Location Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit

American eel From the Battery to the Troy Dam and all tributaries upstream to the first barrier impassable by fish

All year

Eels 614" only may be possessed in any number for bait. No eels greater than 14" may be possessed. No eels may be possessed for food.

Black Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth)

Hudson River from the Troy Dam down-stream and all tributaries in this section to the first barrier impassable by fish.

3rd Sat. in June through Nov 30

15" minimum length Daily limit 5

Note: It is illegal to fish for (including catch & release) largemouth bass and smallmouth bass during the closed season of December 1 through the Friday preceding the 3rd Saturday in June.

Striped BassHudson River & Tributaries north of George Washington Bridge

Mar. 16 through Nov 30

18 minimum length Daily limit 1

American Shad Fishing for or possessing American Shad on the Hudson River or in the marine district is prohibited.

Hickory ShadHudson River & Tributaries north of Tappan Zee Bridge

Aug. 1 through Nov 30

Any Size Daily limit 5

Hudson river anadromous river Herring* regulations

Location Open Season Minimum Length Daily Possession LimitManner of Taking

Hudson River Tributaries and Embayments including Mohawk River

March 15 through June 15

None

10 per angler, OR a maximum boat limit of 50 per day for a group of boat anglers, whichever is lower

Angling only

Main stem of the Hudson River from Lock 1 near Waterford NY south to the George Washington Bridge

March 15 through June 15

None

10 per angler,ORa maximum boat limit of 50 per day for a group of boat anglers, whichever is lower

Angling or by personal use nets (see below)

* Anadromous river herring are alewife, Alosa pseudoharengus, and blueback herring, Alosa aestivalis.

license requirementsAnglers 16 years of age and older who desire to fish in the marine and coastal district of New York, or for migratory marine species in all waters of the state, including the Hudson River, must enroll in the Recreational Marine Fish-ing Registry. Anglers targeting solely freshwater species such as largemouth and smallmouth bass on the Hudson River require only a freshwater fishing license.

circle Hook recommendationIf you plan to use natural baits for striped bass, please use non-offset circle hooks. Circle hooks increase the percentage of fish that are hooked in the mouth, decreasing hooking mortality in released fish. If you plan on practicing catch-and-release fishing, you should only use circle hooks for natu-ral baits.

Blue crab regulations50 blue crabs per day. Mini-mum carapice length across the back is: Hard crab: 4 inches Soft shell crab: 3 inches Peeler crab: 3 inches

No license is required to collect blue crabs.

taking of anadromous river Herring with personal use Nets1. No person shall take anadromous river herring with a net within Hudson River Tributaries

and Embayments. Prior to entering a Hudson River tributary or embayment, all personal use nets must be stowed in a secured container on deck or in a container below deck.

2. No person shall take anadromous river herring from the Hudson River: with more than one net when taking with a scap or dip net; with a dip net exceeding 14 inches in diameter if it is round form or exceeding 13 inches by 13 inches if it is square form; with a scap, or lift net exceeding 16 square feet; with a seine net exceeding 36 square feet; or with a cast net exceeding 10 feet in diameter.


tidaL hUdson river regULations


Border Waters regULationsThe Statewide Angling Regulations apply to species and waters not listed.

greenwood lake (New York/New Jersey Border water)

Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit

Black Bass

Third Sat. in June through Nov 30 12" 5

December 1 through the Friday preceding the third Sat. in June

Catch and Release only

Walleye May 1 through last day in Feb 18" 3

Pickerel All year 15" 5

Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge All year 36" 1

Channel Catfish All year 12" 5

Crappie All year 8" 10

Ice fishing legal for any species during its open season. No more than five tip-ups and two handlines may be used.

Indian lake (New York/connecticut Border water)

Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit

Black Bass 3rd Sat. in April (6 AM) November 30 12" 6

Pickerel 3rd Sat. in April (6 AM) March 31 15" 6

Fishing Prohibited From April 1 to 6 AM on the 3rd Saturday in April.

Ice fishing legal for any species during its open season. No more than five tip-ups and two handlines may be used.

delaware river & west Branch delaware river (NY/pa Border water)

Body of Water Species Open Season Minimum Length Daily Limit

Delaware River Trout

1st Saturday after April 11 through Oct 15 14" 1

Oct 16 through the Fri preceding the first Sat after April 11

Catch and Release only

West Branch Delaware River

Trout

1st Sat after April 11 through Oct 15 12" 2

Oct 16 through the Fri preceding the first Sat after April 11

Catch and Release only Artificial lures only

Delaware River & West Branch Delaware River

Black Bass

First Sat after June 11 through Fri preceding the first Sat After April 11

12" 5

From Fri preceding the first Sat after April 11 through Fri preceding the first Sat After

June 11Catch and Release only

Walleye 1st Sat in May through March 15 18" 3

Pickerel All year 12" 5

Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge

All year 40" 1

Striped Bass All year 28" 2

River Herring* (Alewife and

Blueback Herring)Possession Prohibited

American Shad All year Any size 3

Accessible Recreational

FacilitiesThe Department of Environmental Conservation is committed to providing an ever increasing range of access opportunities to its programs and lands that it administers. The South Bay Fishing Pier on Lake Champlain is an example of the efforts the Department has made towards improving fishing opportunities for people with disabilities. For a complete discussion of Department accessibility efforts and a list of accessible outdoor opportunities, go to:

www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/34035.html

Attention Tournament Organizers

Be certain to follow proper tournament procedures to ensure that fish intended for release survive. A critical factor is water temperature and it is highly recom-mended that tournaments not be held during hot mid-summer periods. Also, be certain that boat livewells and other fish-holding equipment are properly disin-fected after every event. This will help prevent the spread of fish diseases such as VHS and largemouth bass virus (LMBV). Disinfection procedures can be found on page 2. Additional information on proper tournament procedures can be found at: www.bassmaster.com/tips/keeping-bass-alive

Fly Fishing

East Branch Delaware River

the CatskillsThe Catskill region is a densely forested mountainous area of New York State renowned for its rivers and streams, natural beauty and scenic landscapes; and for inspiring many of Americas earliest and most famous writers, artists, naturalists and trout fishermen. Catskill rivers such as the Beaverkill, Willowemoc, Esopus and Neversink have been pivotal to the history and development of American fly fishing; these are historic waters that are held dear by men and women who fly fish, not only in this country, but all over the world.

The Catskill region encompasses 5,892 square miles. Within this boundary are 287,500 acres of public lands known as the Catskill Forest Preserve that contain open and forested lands, lakes, ponds, rivers and streams that can be enjoyed freely for hiking, camping, hunting, skiing and, of course, trout fishing.

The Catskills offer more than 1,500 miles of trout streams that vary in character; from small streams one could leap across teeming with brook trout, to rivers large enough to float a drift boat and tempt a brown or rainbow into taking a dry fly.

Originally, only brook trout inhabited the Catskills. They lived only in the cleanest and coldest sections of streams and rivers, mostly near the headwaters and in the smaller tributaries where water temperatures were coolest. By the 1870s, brook trout populations and habitat were reduced by over-fishing and streamside industries that fouled and warmed their waters.

By the early 1880s, rainbow trout from the west coast, and brown trout from Europe, were introduced into Catskill rivers and streams; and their impact cannot be overstated. They thrived and populated lower river environments that were too warm for native brook trout; and they reproduced, creating many new miles of trout fishing.


The Beaverkill is probably the most well-known of the Catskill fly fishing waters. Most of its famed reputation is based upon the introduction of brown trout. They flourished in its lower waters that were too warm for brook trout. The excellent hatches of surface-riding mayflies; and the coming together of brown trout and the magnificent mayfly hatches created some of the best dry fly fishing in the east. The lower Beaverkill is big water, with lengthy riffles containing all of the popular caddis flies and mayflies that fly fishers read about; pools are large, deep, and wide - wide enough to provide plenty of room for a back cast.

Without question, hatches of Quill Gordons, Hendricksons and March Browns are favorites with fly fishers; but it is the Green Drake that causes the most excitement. When this mayfly is hatching, the largest trout in the Beaverkill can be found actively feeding on the surface. The Beaverkill remains popular today, though most fly fishers concentrate along two stretches of Special Regulations water known as catch and release. Totaling 5.1 miles; these sections can be fished all year,

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