A third record-breaking fish has been caught this year in the Empire State.
Dante Piraino of Baldwinsville reeled in a 9 lb smallmouth bass from the St Lawrence River on September 22 during a bass tournament hosted in the City of Ogdensburg in St Lawrence County.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation has confirmed that the fish has surpassed the previous state record by 8 oz. The previous record holder was caught in 2022 from Cayuga Lake.
“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 DEC Commissioner Sean Mahar said.“There’s nothing better than spending time with family and friends on the water pursuing these exciting sportfish. DEC encourages those fishing in New York’s world class waters to check out the Angler Achievement Awards Program before their next trip.”
Smallmouth bass can be found throughout New York State. According to the DEC, some of the best smallmouth bass fishing spots in the state include the St Lawrence River, 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.
Earlier this year two other state records were broken. On July 11, James Britenbaugh of Pennsylvania caught a 12 lb 6 oz largemouth bass on the Cayuga County side of Cayuga Lake. On June 21, Chuck Zimmerman of Hilton reeled in a 15 lb 14 oz longnose gar from Butterfield Lake in Jefferson County.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
