The statewide harvest season for largemouth and smallmouth bass opened Monday, June 15, giving anglers across New York the chance to keep one of the state’s most popular freshwater sportfish through Nov. 30.
The announcement came from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, which said New York continues to offer some of the nation’s top bass fishing destinations, including Lake Erie, the St. Lawrence River and Oneida Lake.
Bass season opens statewide
The regular harvest season for black bass — including largemouth and smallmouth bass — runs from through Nov. 30.
Outside of the harvest season, most New York waters allow catch-and-release bass fishing from Dec. 1 through June 14.
DEC officials reminded anglers that size limits and daily catch limits vary by waterbody and encouraged fishermen to review current regulations before heading out.
“New York anglers are fortunate to have some of the best bass fishing opportunities in the country,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said in a statement.
New York waters rank among nation’s best
Several New York fisheries continue to receive national recognition.
According to DEC, the St. Lawrence River and Lake Erie were ranked among the nation’s top 10 bass fisheries in 2025 by Bassmaster Magazine.
Other highly rated bass waters include:
Bass can be found in lakes, ponds and rivers throughout the state.
Bass fishing popular with beginners
DEC officials said bass fishing is often a natural next step for anglers looking to move beyond traditional bobber fishing.
The agency offers beginner resources, including fishing guides, instructional videos and recommendations for popular bass fishing locations throughout New York.
Officials also encouraged anglers to review New York Department of Health fish consumption advisories before keeping and eating fish caught from state waters.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: New York bass fishing season is officially open
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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By New York Connect Team, USA Today Network | USA TODAY Network
