New York State recognizes the importance of recreation and continues to encourage the public to get outside locally and responsibly to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
When boating and fishing, DEC and State Parks recommend New Yorkers to #RecreateLocal, avoid busy waters, and follow the guidelines on DEC’s website about recreating and fishing responsibly in New York State. If an angler arrives at an access site and there are several anglers, they should consider going to another location or going fishing another day. Do not share a car, boat, canoe, or kayak with people not in your household while traveling to fishing or boating sites. Anglers fishing from boats should always be able to maintain at least 6 feet of distance between one another.
In addition, starting April 17, New Yorkers are required to wear masks in public when appropriate social distancing cannot be maintained.
Before going fishing, check the Recreational Saltwater Fishing Regulation for the most up to date limits and seasons, and make sure to enroll in New York’s free Marine Recreational Fishing Registry. The registry is required when fishing in New York’s marine and coastal district waters or the Hudson River and its tributaries for “migratory fish of the sea.” DEC encourages anglers to purchase sporting licenses online at this time, and anglers may use their privileges immediately by simply carrying their transaction number (DEC-LS#) with them.
