DEC Fishing Information
The DEC's fishing homepage provides a wealth of information on freshwater fishing tips, regulations and a listing of warm-water fishing locations in each DEC region. Find out more about the topics below, as well as many more, by visiting their site.
Licenses
- No matter what kind of fishing you do, you must have a license if you are 16 or older.
- You can get a license over the telephone with a credit card by calling 518 457-8862.
- You will need your driver's license number as proof of residence. (If you live out of state, the fee is higher.) Non-drivers I.D. numbers are also accepted.
- Fishing licenses may also be purchased at many sporting goods stores and town clerks' offices.
Fishing Hotlines
The DEC offers hotlines that provide information to anglers about fishing locations, fishing conditions, and types of fish found in the waters of New York State. These hotlines are updated every week and are a great way to keep up to date about where to catch the best fish.
Regulations
It is important to understand current fishing regulations before you set off on your next angling trip. Guides are available both as PDF downloads as well as on the DEC site. Many of the Adirondack lakes, rivers and ponds have strict regulations regarding live baitfish, invasive species and catch and release policies. Make sure that you know what is permitted in each body of water you plan on fishing.
