Beginner's Guide to Fishing in New York State

Whether you’re looking to enjoy nature, make unforgettable memories with friends and family, or learn a new hobby, fishing offers a never-ending stream of exciting experiences. The best part is anyone can learn to fish! With world-class fishing spanning from Long Island to the Thousand Islands, New York State is the reel deal. Here’s everything you need to know to start your Empire State fishing adventure.

Credit: NYSDEC

Pick Your Place

It’s no secret, New York State is an angler’s oasis! With more than 7,500 lakes and ponds, 70,000 miles of rivers and streams, and coastline galore, the Empire State’s world-class waterways offer up some of the best places to cast a line for every kind of angler. In fact, New York is home to six of Bassmaster’s top 100 bass lakes (with the St. Lawrence River topping the list in 2022 and earning second place for 2023). Whether you’re looking for a local pond to catch bass and sunfish, or seeking solitude on a remote stream, visit the Department of Environmental Conservation’s Places to Fish page to plan your fishing adventure. Before heading out be sure to download the HuntFishNY app and check out the Tackle Box feature, where you can access fishing spots, driving directions to boat launch sites, fishing regulations, and more, all from the convenience of your smartphone.

Get Your Fishing License

Don’t get caught without a New York State fishing license! If you’re 16 years or older, or plan on assisting someone in fishing, licenses are required. Freshwater fishing licenses can be purchased through the DEC in-person at an official license issuing agent, over the phone, or online. Choose from one-day, seven-day, or annual license options ranging from $5-$50. Free and reduced licenses are also available for active duty military, veterans, seniors (70+), Native Americans, those who are legally blind, and non-resident students attending a New York State college or university. If it’s your first time fishing, we recommend fishing on one of the six free fishing days offered throughout the year, where residents and non-residents unlock the opportunity to fish for free without a freshwater license. Free fishing days in 2024 are President's Day Weekend (February 17-18), June 29-30, National Fishing and Hunting Day (September 28), and Veterans Day (November 11). For those 16 years or older who plan to saltwater fish, you must enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry (free).

Credit: NYSDEC

Learn to Fish

If you’re looking to learn alongside the experts, sign up for lessons, clinics, and programs offered throughout the state. The DEC hosts free Learn to Fish clinics from Rochester to Brooklyn to Southampton, teaching you how to cast a rod and catch fish as well as fish identification, types of equipment and techniques, fisheries management, angling ethics, aquatic ecology, and more.

Be Responsible

Being a responsible angler isn’t up for de-bait! Be sure to review the New York State Fishing Regulations Guide to keep fishing safe and fun for everyone. Download the HuntFishNY app for easy access to regulations and other tools on the go. Bringing your catch home for dinner? Be sure to properly care for your catch and review consumption advisories before preparation. Help take care of our environment! If you see something that you may think is a violation of environmental law or natural occurrence, let the DEC know.

Tips, Tricks, and Techniques

Set yourself up for success! Check out the DEC’s “How To” video series for all the basic information beginners need to get started. Plus, here are some tips and tricks to make sure your fishing trip goes swimmingly:

Prepare for the day. Check the weather, pack water and snacks, use sunscreen and bug repellant, wear a hat, and bring a first aid kit.
Plan to fish in the morning or evening. Fish are more likely to bite at these times and in the warmer months it won’t be as hot.
Use the right gear. Spin cast (push button) rods, bobbers, and worms are great setups and easy to use for beginners and children. If you’re just starting out, check out the I FISH NY Fishing Rod Loaner Program, where you can borrow fishing equipment at no cost at participating locations. Local sporting goods stores are another great option.
Get to know commonly caught fish. New York is home to more than 165 species of fish! Most often you’ll find bluegill (pictured) and pumpkinseed sunfish, largemouth bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and brown bullhead, just to name a few. For more commonly caught freshwater sportfish, check out the Fishes of NY chapter of the I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing.
Learn how to properly cast. Casting correctly can greatly improve your fishing success. Check out the DEC’s How to Cast video on YouTube for a complete guide and important tips. Photo Credit: NYSDEC

Unique Fishing Experiences

Whether you’re an advanced angler or just starting out, up the adventure on your next fishing trip with these unique and unforgettable experiences. Cruise through the sparkling waters of the St. Lawrence with A-Bay Fishing Charters, where you’ll catch fish alongside an experienced guide. Afterward, indulge in a traditional shore dinner featuring your catches of the day. Sea Rogue Fishing Charters on Long Island offers full or half day charters for a deep sea fishing excursion that’s perfect for experienced anglers or families looking for a relaxing and educational adventure. Cruise through the Finger Lakes with a knowledgeable guide from Upstate Anglers, where you’ll scout for bass, walleye, pike, and panfish.

Family fishing on Charter Fishing Boat at Captree State Park

Fish alongside a marine scientist on the East River in Brooklyn with NYC Fishing School, and learn about the history of fishing in New York City and the different species as well as how to fish. The Catskills offer some of the best fly fishing east of the Rockies. Explore the art of fly fishing at the world’s largest center dedicated to its community, the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum. Try it out for yourself with a free beginner class at Orvis Sandanona Fly Fishing School in Millbrook. For those looking to ice fish, bundle up and hit the ice with a guided trip on Oneida Lake with Brian on the Fly.

Plan your next fishing trip with our blog on the Best Places to Fish in New York State featuring fishing spots across New York’s 11 vacation regions, restaurant recommendations, and more.

For more information, visit DEC’s website or download the HuntFishNY app and check out the Tackle Box feature to find fishing regulations, waterbodies, fish species and stocking information, and more all in one spot!