April 1 marked the beginning of trout season, and while getting fresh air and exercise outside is essential to your health and happiness, it’s important to remain proactive in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among your fellow anglers. The DEC has these recommendations:

First, make sure to get your fishing license. Due to the closure of locations where a license would normally be available, you can order one online by visiting this link, or over the phone by calling 1-866-933-2257.

Once you have your license, make sure you follow the fishing regulations. Requests for hardcopies are currently delayed due closures of the town clerk offices, but a PDF version of the 2020/2021 regulations is available for download from the DEC’s website. If you want to receive a hardcopy, just email fwfish@dec.ny and include your physical mailing address.

Remember to socially distance yourself, and to avoid crowded fishing spots!

Fish Hatchery Updates

• To limit the spread of COVID-19, the DEC’s hatcheries are closed to visitors. The annual walleye egg take at the Oneida Fish Hatchery in Constantia will not be available for observation.
• To reduce spreading COVID-19 to the DEC Fish Hatchery staff, the walleye egg take will be dialed back. The Oneida Lake walleye population will not receive its annual 150 million fry this year. Only enough eggs to sustain the walleye fingerling stocking program will be collected.