ALBANY – April 1 is most known for being “April Fool’s Day” around the country, but thousands of anglers across New York also know it for being the first day of trout and salmon fishing season.
Before heading out for opening day, make sure you have your license. Anyone 16 years of age and older who desires to fish in New York must have a New York State fishing license. Anglers can purchase their license and print them for immediate use on their home computer at www.licensecenter.ny.gov/.
According to the Governor’s office, New York boasts 7,500 lakes and ponds and 70,000 miles of rivers and streams for resident and visiting anglers to enjoy. The state is home to an estimated 1.9 million total anglers, while 297,000 non-resident anglers come to New York to fish, according to a study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. New York’s sport fishing industry generates an estimated $1.96 billion in economic activity annually, supporting nearly 17,000 jobs.
Early season trout fishing recommendations by the Department of Environmental Conservation can be found in the 2015 Coldwater Fishing Forecast at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/63598.html.
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