'2025 April 1st Marks The Opening Of Spring Blackfish And Winter Flounder season In New York
Posted by John Mantione on
As the winter chill begins to fade and the days grow longer, anglers in New York eagerly await the opening of the spring blackfish season on April 1st. But that's not the only exciting fishing opportunity that awaits them. April 1st also marks the opening of the New York winter flounder season, providing anglers with a double dose of fishing excitement. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of both seasons, giving you all the information you need to make the most of your time on the water.
What is Spring Blackfish Season?
Spring blackfish season is a highly anticipated time for anglers in New York. Blackfish, also known as tautog, are a popular game fish known for their hard-fighting nature and delicious taste. These bottom-dwelling fish can be found in rocky areas, wrecks, and reefs along the coast. The season opens on April 1st and runs through April 30th, giving anglers plenty of time to target these feisty fish.
How to Catch Blackfish
Catching blackfish requires a specialized approach. These fish have a knack for stealing bait, so it's important to use the right techniques and gear to increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips to help you catch blackfish:
- Use a high-quality rod and reel combo with a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites.
- Rig your line with a sliding sinker and a blackfish hook.
- Bait your hook with green crabs, Asian crabs, or clams.
- Target rocky areas, wrecks, and reefs where blackfish are known to congregate.
- Be patient and pay close attention to your line for any signs of a bite.
New York Winter Flounder Season
In addition to spring blackfish season, April 1st also marks the opening of the New York winter flounder season. Winter flounder, also known as black-backs, are a popular flatfish species that can be found in the coastal waters of New York. These fish are known for their tasty white flesh and are a favorite among anglers.
Tips for Catching Winter Flounder
Catching winter flounder requires a different approach compared to blackfish. Here are a few tips to help you catch these delicious flatfish:
- Use a light to medium-action rod and reel combo with a sensitive tip.
- Rig your line with a bottom rig or a flounder rig.
- Bait your hook with sandworms, bloodworms, or clams.
- Target sandy or muddy bottoms where winter flounder are known to feed.
- Keep your bait close to the bottom and use a slow, gentle retrieve.
Both blackfish and winter flounder offer exciting fishing opportunities for anglers in New York. Whether you prefer the challenge of targeting blackfish or the delicate finesse required to catch winter flounder, April 1st marks the beginning of a thrilling fishing season. So grab your gear, check the regulations, and get ready to hit the water for an unforgettable angling experience.
Just a reminder. All anglers 16yrs and older are required to register for saltwater fishing or purchase a license for freshwater fishing in New York State.
You need to register before saltwater fishing. It's easy and it's FREE for NYS residents and all visitors. To fish our local lakes and ponds, a Freshwater License is required. Basically, a NYS resident, Freshwater License, is available to purchase for a days fishing ($5.00) a week ($12.00) or a season (one year from date of purchase for $25.00.-Senior [70 or older] $5.00. ) Additional discounts are available for active military, disabled vets and more...... Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing Licenses are also available for a fee from $10.00-$50.00.
Stop down at J & J Sports and we'll issue you a licenses or marine registry. To purchase a license or register online- click HERE. There's nothing worse than getting a ticket just because you went fishing. Have a smart phone? Here's an idea:
It's a good idea to "snap a shot" of your license so it's always with you in case of loss or its destroyed. There is now an option to have your license emailed to you.
Get Your Sporting Licenses or Register for Marine Fishing
Buy your sporting license online or
By Phone: 1-866-933-2257
Send your reports, photos or your favorite fish recipe to: REPORTS@JJSPORTSFISHING.COM
Don't forget to include, names, location and details (when possible: lures or bait used, tides, etc….) comments or questions are welcome. Call (631) 654-2311