Freshwater Fishing, Fisheries Management, and Boating News
In This Issue:
- New Trout Catch & Release Season for Inland Streams
- Trout Catch & Release Tips
- Fishing Safely in Streams
- Plan Your Trout Fishing Trip
- Setting the Record Straight on Artificial Bait
 New Catch & Release Season for Inland Trout Streams
When one door closes, another one opens… or in this case, when one fishing season closes, another one opens.
In years past, October 15th meant the end of trout season here in New York. However, thanks to DEC’s recently implemented Trout Stream Management Plan, a new catch and release trout stream season (on inland streams) will begin on October 16 and extend through March 31. Now hardy anglers can enjoy trout fishing year-round! During the catch and release trout season, only artificial lures may be used and trout must be immediately released. Anglers are reminded to avoid disturbing spawning trout and gravel beds where trout eggs may be incubating.
To assess any impact of the new season on wild trout populations, angling pressure and young of year trout abundance will be estimated on a statewide sample of 19 wild trout stream reaches from 2021 through 2024.
Visit DEC's website to learn more about the Angler Use and Wild Trout Young of Year Recruitment Study.
To find out more, visit:
Trout Stream Management Plan
DECinfo Locator
New York State Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide
 Trout Catch & Release Tips
- Handle fish as little as possible and release them quickly - do not fight fish to exhaustion. Wetting your hands first will prevent removal of a fish's protective slime coating.
- Minimize or eliminate the time fish are out of the water.
- When a fish is deeply hooked, do not try to remove the hook - clip the leader instead.
 Fishing Safely in Streams
Personal safety should always be a priority for anglers, especially as the water temperatures decrease. If heading out into a stream to fish, carrying a wading staff and wearing studded boots will help you move safely through swift water.
Pay attention to the weather, and be prepared to forgo wading or cancel your trip to avoid unsafe conditions.
(Image Courtesy of Sean Platt)
 Planning Your Trout Fishing Trip
Need help finding your next trout fishing adventure? Check out DEC’s Interactive Trout Stream Fishing Map on the DECinfo Locator. The map provides anglers with one stop shopping for information about stocking, fishing access, season dates, and regulations. We encourage you to use this resource before hitting the water, so you're aware of all the trout stream fishing opportunities available near and far.
 Setting the Record Straight on Artificial Bait
In many scenarios whenever there's a catch and release season, the use of "artificial lures only" goes along with it. By definition, artificial lures or baits are imitations of natural bait.
Artificial Lures/Baits-
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ARE man-made flies (deer hair and feathers are permitted), spinners, spoons, plugs, jigs, etc.
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AREN'T fish eggs, fish (dead or alive), worms, frogs, insects (all stages), meat, corn, bread, and dough-like scented baits.
For official definitions, refer to page 70 in the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide.
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