Sights and sounds of the NYS DEC • NYS DEC LINKS • Reefs • Access Info and More.........

Recreational Fishing

The marine waters of New York host varied and exciting fishing opportunities for recreational anglers. Long Island is ideally situated so that both southern and northern fish species frequent our waters. You can fish for Atlantic cod, winter flounder and mackerel in the spring, or try your luck for bluefish, summer flounder and Spanish mackerel when school is out.

Register Before Going Fishing

Make sure to enroll in the annual no-fee Recreational Marine Fishing Registry before going fishing in the marine and coastal district waters or when fishing in the Hudson River and its tributaries for "migratory fish of the sea" (e.g. striped bass). DEC Marine Permit Office does not issue the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry, please register online through the official DECALS website or Stop down at  J & J Sports  and we'll issue you a licenses or marine registry.

The NY DEC site goes beyond fishing regulations and access points. It provides a plethora of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests. From hunting and trapping to wildlife viewing and hiking, the site offers information on various recreational activities. Additionally, you can find educational programs, workshops, and events that cater to different skill levels and interests. The NY DEC site truly serves as a gateway to explore and appreciate the natural wonders of New York State.

Check Fishing Limits and Seasons

Before setting out on your fishing trip, check the Recreational Saltwater Fishing Regulations for marine fish, lobsters, and crabs.

Find a Boat Launch or Fishing Access Site

Locate the parks, agencies, and municipalities that manage facilities with access to the water. Rules and fees that apply to facilities differ widely, so make sure you check with the appropriate authority before you travel. Also, check the Artificial Reefs webpage to identify where New York's artificial fishing and diving reefs are located.

New Artificial Reef Materials and On-going Research

DEC will be collaborating with The Nature Conservancy and Stony Brook University on scientific studies at Atlantic Beach Artificial Reef off The Rockaways throughout 2024.

The research is designed to test different monitoring methods aimed at measuring the habitat value of reefs with the potential to inform how new reefs are constructed to maximize value to fish and other marine life. Please visit the DEC website for more information about artificial reef locations.

The work should not interfere with any fishing activities, and the team would like to talk to anglers who regularly fish on the reef in an effort to learn from them and receive advice. Primary point of contact is Carl LoBue at clobue@tnc.org.

Support New York's Marine and Coastal District A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this attractive plate featuring the Montauk Lighthouse and striped bass will help benefit the Marine and Coastal District of New York Conservation, Education and Research Fund. The collected monies will be used to promote marine sport fishing, increase participation in marine recreational angling, increase public awareness and appreciation of marine and estuarine natural resources, encourage conservation of marine fisheries resources, and promote research and increased knowledge of the state's marine and estuarine natural resources. More information on ordering a Marine and Coastal District of New York plate can be found at the DMV website.