Trout Fishing Fever Grips New York: April 1st Marks Start of 2024 Season

As the winter chill fades away, anglers across New York State eagerly prepare their gear for the start of trout fishing season, a beloved tradition heralding the arrival of spring. With April 1st marking the official commencement of the trout fishing season, anglers are gearing up to cast their lines into the state’s abundant waters, thanks to the efforts of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Commissioner Basil Seggos, head of the DEC, has enthusiastically reminded New Yorkers of the much-awaited April 1st kickoff. This year’s anticipation is particularly heightened due to the DEC’s extensive stocking program, which aims to enrich New York’s already renowned wild trout fisheries.

“The mild winter afforded New Yorkers some trout fishing opportunities during the catch-and-release season,” Commissioner Seggos remarked. “However, April 1, the traditional opening day of inland trout fishing season, brings the excitement to another level as spring arrives and the state’s streams and ponds are stocked to provide additional opportunities for anglers.”

April 1st Marks The Opening of New York Trout Harvesting Season; Catch-And-Release Available All Year

April 1st not only symbolizes the opening of the harvest season but also marks a transition from the year-round fishing, which was permitted on most streams in 2021. The implementation of an “artificial lures only, catch-and-release” season from October 16th to March 31st paved the way for a sustainable fishing approach.

DEC’s meticulous trout stocking efforts commenced in March and are set to continue through early June. Over 1.9 million catchable size brook, brown, and rainbow trout will be strategically placed in streams and ponds across the state during this period. Among these, “Stocked-Extended” streams, as listed in the Inland Trout Streams Regulations, will receive regular fish stockings every other week for two months, ensuring a season-long abundance of opportunities for angler success.

To enhance the angling experience further, most streams will also receive a seeding of larger stocked trout, promising an exhilarating challenge for seasoned anglers. Anglers eager to plan their outings can consult the Spring Trout Stocking lists, detailing the week of stocking for trout streams, available on DEC’s official website.

As New York State emerges from winter’s grasp, trout fishing season beckons enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature, casting their lines into pristine waters teeming with vibrant trout. With the DEC’s commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices, anglers can look forward to a season brimming with excitement, camaraderie, and unforgettable fishing adventures in the Empire State.

2024 Hudson Valley Trout Stocking Lists

Last Updated on April 1, 2024 by Fish HV Contributors

April 1st Marks The Opening of New York Trout Harvesting Season; Catch-And-Release Available All Year

2024 Hudson Valley Trout Stocking Lists

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