Environment DEC
From the March 2003 issue
New York State's Trout Season Opening April 1st
Tuesday, April 1 marks the opening of trout season in New York State. For many anglers, this designates the beginning of a new fishing year, and so they spend the month of March preparing their fishing gear in anticipation of the upcoming season.
New York State has a wide variety of trout waters that offer anglers great opportunities on opening day. However, due to heavy snowfalls experienced throughout much of the state, many streams could have high water levels. With this possibility in mind, anglers may want to try some of the smaller streams and tributaries. In addition, most Adirondack ponds are likely to still be frozen by April 1, so anglers may want to scout out fishing sites beforehand and to keep in mind that ice fishing is prohibited in most trout waters.
Regulations and Stocking Information
Anglers are reminded that the general creel limit for brook, brown and rainbow trout is five in combination, and the open season for trout in most state waters runs from April 1 through October 15. Anglers are further advised to review the current Freshwater Fishing Regulations prior to visiting the areas where they plan to fish. Exceptions to statewide regulations exist in all DEC regions, and knowing about them beforehand could save a lot of time and trouble.
If the weather is suitable, DEC will begin stocking in March. Consequently, a number of trout waters may receive their complement of fish prior to opening day. For a listing of stocked waters (updated in mid to late March), please check DEC's Freshwater Fishing page, which includes links to stocking information.
