Fishing season for Walleye, Northern Pike, Pickerel, and Tiger Muskellunge begins on Thursday. New York’s coolwater fish species provide excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all ability levels.
“Fishing is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, and New Yorkers are fortunate to have such a large variety of popular sportfish to choose from in the state’s abundant waterways,” said Acting Commissioner Lefton. “I encourage all anglers to enjoy the great fishing that can be found here in New York and share the fun with others, especially those new to the sport.”
Anglers looking for walleye should not have to go far to find high-quality fishing opportunities. Walleye occur in more than 140 waters and in every major watershed in New York State. Information on fishing locations for walleye can be found on DEC’s website. Early to mid-spring can be particularly good for walleye fishing. Walleye are aggressive post-spawn feeders and can often be found in relatively shallow water near spawning locations this time of year. Typical gear used for walleye fishing includes spinning or baitcasting reels, medium-weight rods, and monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Reliable baits include artificial lures, live baits, or both. Jigs, crankbaits, stickbaits, and live bait harnesses can all be effective. More information on fishing for walleye can be found on DEC’s website.
Spring is also one of the best times to fish for northern pike. Northerns move into shallow tributaries, bays, and wetlands in early spring to spawn, typically just after ice-out. After spawning, these fish tend to stay near shallow water areas and feed aggressively before returning to deeper water areas for the summer. Pike fishing gear typically includes a medium-heavy rod and a spinning or baitcasting reel with monofilament or braided line used with a steel or heavy fluorocarbon leader. Casting swimbaits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and spoons along and around structures works well in the spring.
Although smaller than pike, pickerel can be relatively easy to catch and provide anglers with some great action when they are on the bite. Lures used for pickerel are similar to those used for pike, but usually smaller in size.
Tiger Muskellunge, which is a cross between a Northern pike and muskellunge, can grow appreciably large. These fish are stocked by DEC at select waterbodies to provide anglers the opportunity to enjoy targeting big, hard-fighting fish.
For information on fishing destinations for northern pike and other esocids such as chain pickerel and tiger muskellunge, see: Musky, Pike, Tiger Musky, and Pickerel Fishing Opportunities.
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