The season for my favorite freshwater fish species is now closed. Can I still fish for them as long as I release the fish that I catch?

 It is illegal to fish for a fish species during its closed season, even if you intend to release the fish that you catch. Because closed seasons are established to protect certain species, catching these fish during that time can have a negative impact on the population. If you desire to fish during the closed season, seek out one of the numerous waters throughout the state that are open to year-round angling for one or more species. These waters and the fish species open can be found in the Fishing Regulations Guide or by calling your Regional Fisheries Office.

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Sportfishing regulations
Tells which waters and fish species are open for fishing in New York State.
URL: http://www.dec.ny.gov/regs/4026.html#12883