Fishing provides a never-ending stream of fascinating experiences, whether you are wanting to savor the beauty of nature, create memories that will last a lifetime with loved ones and friends, or learn a new activity. What’s even better is that anybody can learn how to fish! New York State is the whole package when it comes to fishing, since it offers fishing of world-class quality from Long Island to the Thousand Islands. Listed here is all you need to know in order to get started on your fishing experience in the Empire State.
The Choice Is Yours
There is no hiding the fact that New York State is a paradise for anglers! The waterways of the Empire State are of world-class quality, including more than 7,500 lakes and ponds, 70,000 miles of rivers and streams, and an abundance of coastline. These waterways provide anglers of all types with some of the greatest spots to throw a line. The state of New York is home to six of the top 100 bass lakes in the world, according to Bassmaster magazine. The St. Lawrence River, which topped the list in 2022 and earned second place for 2023, is especially noteworthy.
Visit the Places to Fish page on the Department of Environmental Conservation’s website to organize your fishing excursion. Whether you are searching for a nearby pond to catch bass and sunfish or you are looking for solitude on a distant stream, you can find both via this page. You should make sure to download the HuntFishNY app and check out the Tackle Box feature before you go fishing. This tool allows you to access fishing places, driving instructions to boat launch sites, fishing rules, and more, all from the comfort of your smartphone.
Register for a fishing license.
Make sure you don’t get caught fishing without a license from the state of New York! You are necessary to have a fishing license if you are at least 16 years old or if you want to help another person in fishing. Obtaining a license to fish in freshwater may be done in person at an official license issuing agent, over the phone, or online via the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The licensing choices range from $5 to $50, and you may choose between a one-day, seven-day, or yearly license. A number of other groups are eligible for free or discounted licenses, including members of the active duty military, veterans, elderly citizens (over the age of 70), Native Americans, those who are legally blind, and students who are not attending a college or university in the state of New York.
If this is your first time fishing, we strongly suggest that you go on one of the six free fishing days that are given throughout the year. On these days, both residents and non-residents have the option to fish without having to purchase a freshwater license. The President’s Day Weekend (February 17-18), the 29th and 30th of June, National Fishing and Hunting Day (September 28), and Veterans Day (November 11) are examples of days in 2024 that are designated as free fishing days. If you are at least 16 years old and want to fish in saltwater, you are required to sign up for the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry, which is a free registration.
Learn how to fish.
By enrolling in the many classes, clinics, and programs that are available around the state, you will have the opportunity to study alongside trained professionals. Beginning in Rochester and extending all the way to Southampton, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) offers free Learn to Fish clinics. These clinics teach participants how to cast a rod and catch fish, as well as how to identify species, different kinds of equipment and tactics, fisheries management, angling ethics, aquatic ecology, and more.
Act in a Responsible Manner
To be a responsible fisherman is not something that can be de-baited! In order to ensure that fishing is both safe and enjoyable for everyone, it is imperative that you read the New York State Fishing Regulations Guide. Downloading the HuntFishNY app will allow you to easily access rules and other resources while you are on the go. Would you want to bring your catch home for dinner? Ensure that your catch is properly cared for and that you study any consumption warnings before beginning the preparation process. Give a hand in protecting our natural resources! Notify the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) if you come across anything that you believe may be a violation of environmental law or a natural occurrence.
A Few Hints, Tricks, and Methods
Prepare yourself to achieve your goals! Take a look at the “How To” video series that the DEC has created to gain all of the fundamental information that novices need to get started. Also, in order to ensure that your fishing excursion goes off without a hitch, here are some helpful hints and suggestions:
Set yourself up for the day. Be sure to check the weather, prepare a first aid kit, bring drinks and food, apply sunscreen and insect repellent, wear a hat, and protect yourself from the sun.
Choose between the morning or the evening to go fishing. It is at these periods that fish are more likely to bite, and during the warmer months, the temperature will be lower.
Make use of the appropriate equipment. Setups such as spin cast (push button) rods, bobbers, and worms are excellent options for novices and youngsters since they are simple to use. At selected sites, you will be able to borrow fishing equipment at no cost if you are just beginning your recreational fishing endeavors. Your neighborhood sports goods shops are yet another excellent choice.
Learn about the fish that are often caught. In the state of New York, there are over 165 different species of fish! You will most often come across pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill sunfish, largemouth bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and brown bullhead, to mention just a few of the species that you could encounter. There is a chapter in the I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing titled “Fishes of New York,” which contains information on freshwater sportfish that are caught more often.
Master the art of casting correctly. If you cast properly, you may significantly increase your chances of catching fish. A comprehensive instruction and useful pointers may be found in the video that the DEC has uploaded to YouTube titled “How to Cast.” NYSDEC is the photographer.
Fishing Adventures That Are Unlike Any Other
You may take your next fishing trip to the next level of excitement by participating in these one-of-a-kind and memorable events, regardless of whether you are an experienced fisherman or just starting out. When you go fishing with A-Bay Fishing Charters, you will be able to catch fish while being accompanied by an expert guide as you sail over the glistening waters of the St. Lawrence. After that, you should treat yourself to a typical seaside meal that has your catches of the day on the menu.
Sea Rogue Fishing Charters on Long Island provides charters for deep sea fishing excursions that can be purchased for either a full or half day. These charters are ideal for experienced fishermen as well as families who are seeking for an experience that is both relaxing and informative. Bass, walleye, pike, and panfish are some of the species that you will be able to catch when fishing in the Finger Lakes with the assistance of an experienced guide from Upstate Anglers.
With the help of NYC Fishing School, you will be able to fish alongside a marine scientist on the East River in Brooklyn. In addition to learning how to fish, you will also get knowledge about the history of fishing in New York City and the many species that are caught there. There are some of the greatest fly fishing opportunities east of the Rockies in the Catskill Mountains.
Discover the art of fly fishing at the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum, which prides itself on being the biggest facility in the world that is devoted to its community. Orvis Sandanona Fly Fishing School in Millbrook offers a free introductory lesson for anyone who are interested in trying fly fishing for the first time. Those who are interested in ice fishing should get themselves bundled up and go out onto the ice with Brian on the Fly for a guided session on Oneida Lake.
Our article on the Best Places to Fish in New York State can help you plan your next fishing trip by providing information on fishing places throughout New York’s 11 vacation areas, as well as suggestions for restaurants and other dining options.
Get additional information by going to the Department of Environmental Conservation’s website or by downloading the HuntFishNY app and using the Tackle Box function. This tool allows you to access information about fishing restrictions, waterbodies, fish species and stocking, and more all in one place!