The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced that the open season for black bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, officially began June 15 and runs through Nov. 30. 

DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton encouraged anglers of all skill levels to take advantage of New York’s nationally recognized bass fishing opportunities.

“For both new and experienced anglers, bass fishing is an affordable, fun way to explore our incredible natural resources,” said Commissioner Lefton. “New York has some of the best bass fishing in the country, and we invite everyone to get outside and enjoy it.”

A catch-and-release season is in effect statewide from December 1 to June 14, although special fishing regulations apply to certain waters. Anglers are advised to review the current regulations before planning their trips.

New York’s bass fisheries continue to gain national acclaim, contributing significantly to the state’s $5 billion recreational freshwater fishing industry. In 2024, the St. Lawrence River and Lake Erie/Upper Niagara River were ranked #1 and #7, respectively, on Bassmaster Magazine’s list of best bass lakes in the United States. Other New York lakes—including Lake Champlain, Cayuga Lake, and Oneida Lake—also earned spots in the magazine’s Top 25 Best Bass Lakes in the Northeast.