DEC announces start of 2025 black bass season

Quality bass fishing opportunities available throughout state

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Press Release

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the open (harvest) season for largemouth and smallmouth bass, collectively known as black bass, begins June 15 and runs through Nov. 30. For most of the state, a catch-and-release season is in place from Dec. 1 through June 14. Special fishing regulations exist for some waters, so anglers should check current fishing regulations before heading out to fish. 

“New York has some of the best bass fishing in the country, and this affordable, fun activity is accessible for all New Yorkers,” Lefton said. “I encourage all anglers, novice or expert, to take advantage of the outstanding bass fishing opportunities New York’s abundant waterways have to offer throughout the state.”

New York’s bass fisheries remain in the national spotlight and contribute to the $5 billion in economic benefits provided by New York’s recreational freshwater fishing industry each year.

In 2024, the St. Lawrence River and Lake Erie/Upper Niagara River were ranked the nation’s No. 1 and No. 7 bass lakes, respectively, by Bassmaster Magazine. Lake Champlain, Cayuga Lake and Oneida Lake also made Bassmaster Magazine’s top 25 Northeastern Best Bass Lakes list. 

Fishing for bass is a great option for beginning anglers interested in going “beyond the bobber.” For tips on how and where to catch bass, see “Fishing For Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass.” Those new to fishing can check out the “I FISH NY Beginners' Guide to Freshwater Fishing,” which has all the information needed to get started. There’s also a “how-to” video series on DEC’s YouTube channel. 

Bass fishing is another fun way for New Yorkers get out and enjoy nature, and the open season further supports Gov. Kathy Hochul's “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by helping encourage New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. 

Be sure to check out DEC’s “Places to Fish” and “Warmwater Fishing” webpages for more information on where to go bass fishing, as well as the “Tackle Box” feature in the HuntFishNY mobile app. 

The New York State Department of Health provides advice to anglers about what fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit DOH’s website to search by waterbody location.