CONFIRMED: New York boasts yet another state record fish caught in the North Country

New York is celebrating another state record fish. Even more, it was reeled in right here in the North Country.

During a fishing tournament last month on the St. Lawrence River in the city of Ogdensburg, NY, Dante Piraino of Baldwinsville, Onondaga County, hauled in a jaw dropping nine-pound Smallmouth Bass, enough to shatter the previous record caught from Cayuga Lake in 2022 by a half-pound.

“New York provides some of the best bass fishing in the country and Mr. Piraino’s incredible catch is a testament to the outstanding angler opportunities across the state,” Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said.

The new state record Smallmouth Bass, which was fooled by a soft plastic lure, was caught on September 22.

In July, a stunning and state record breaking Largemouth Bass, caught by James Britenbaugh, of Pennsylvania, was hauled in out of Cayuga Lake.

Pound for pound, smallmouth bass are considered one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish in New York, the DEC says.

When hooked, they will often take acrobatic leaps out of the water, making them a highly desirable sportfish for anglers.

According to the DEC, Smallmouth bass can be found across the state in cooler lakes, rivers, and creeks in rocky/gravelly areas.

Aside from the famed St. Lawrence River, some of the best smallmouth bass waters in New York include Lake Erie/Upper Niagara River, Lake Champlain, Cayuga Lake, Oneida Lake, and Chautauqua Lake.

Lake George, Mohawk River, Susquehanna River, Lower Niagara River, and Keuka Lake are also great options.

NYS DEC image.