REMINDER: New York Bass fishing opener is June 15

Just in time for Father’s Day weekend, the New York State DEC is reminding anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike that the opening of Bass season is June 15.

This means the open harvest for Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass will commence through November 30.

From December 1 – June 14, most of the state allows a catch and release season, but special regulations may exist for specific waters. Anglers are always encouraged to double check with the latest regulations.

According to the DEC, Bass are the most popular New York sport fish, as populations can be found thriving statewide in water bodies of all types and sizes.

“From neighborhood ponds and smaller streams to the Great Lakes, New York is fortunate to have some of the most outstanding bass fishing opportunities in the country,” Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said.

“I encourage all anglers to find the time to enjoy, and share with others, the fun and excitement that comes with casting a line and landing a bass in New York.”

In 2023, New York State landed six lakes on Bassmaster Magazine’s top 100 best bass lakes in the country.

Among the New York waters included are the St. Lawrence River (Thousand Islands), ranked as the second-best bass lake in the nation, and Lake Erie/Upper Niagara River, ranked as ninth-best lake. Lake Champlain, Cayuga Lake, Oneida Lake, and Chautauqua Lake made the list, as well, and are in Bassmaster Magazine’s top 25 Northeastern Best Bass Lakes 2023.

NYS DEC image.