DEC stocking trout ahead of opening day

New York’s trout fishing season starts on Thursday, April 1, with anglers taking to reservoirs, lakes, rivers and streams throughout the state.

In preparation, the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation is stocking 1.8 million catchable trout into the waters. In addition to larger-size fish being stocked, the state said some stream reaches will receive four stockings of trout.

The reservoirs and lakes will be open for fishing from shore or on boats that have a valid Department of Environmental Protection boat tag. Most of these areas have trout and warmwater species such as smallmouth and largemouth bass.

“This year opening day represents the beginning of a new era in trout stream management for New York,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a press release. “After more than two years of committed work with our angling public, the DEC will begin implementing the new Trout Stream Management Plan. In addition to new and fewer types of special regulations, we have made significant progress toward achieving our fish production objectives to stock larger yearling fish and seed all stockings with some fish 12 inches or larger. Best of all, anglers can continue to enjoy our trout stream resources through the fall and winter months thanks to the creation of a new catch and release season.”

The trout season runs until Oct. 15, but anglers can continue during the statewide catch-and-release season that runs from Oct. 16-March 31. This yearround season allows opportunities instead of waiting until next spring.

Those looking to register a rowboat for use in any of New York City’s reservoirs must make a steam-cleaning appointment in advance at one of the DEP’s five boat offices in the watershed. To make an appointment at the Ashokan Reservoir boat office, call (845) 657-5073 or the Rondout and Neversink Reservoirs boat office at (845) 334-7152.