Trout Fishing Season Opens in Ulster County: What Anglers Need to Know

April 1 is not just April Fools Day in New York.

 

It is the opening day of trout season, and thousands of anglers across the Hudson Valley are grabbing their rods and heading to the water.

 

In Ulster County, the Esopus Creek and Rondout Creek are already seeing heavy traffic as fishermen try to land the first trout of the year.

 

Where to Fish

 

The Esopus Creek winds through the county offering miles of accessible shoreline for anglers.

 

The Rondout Creek flows right through Kingston and holds plenty of trout, particularly near the city limits.

 

Smaller streams like the Wallkill River and Saw Kill offer quieter fishing away from the crowds.

 

For those who prefer still water, there are stocked ponds throughout Ulster County.

 

What You Need

 

New York requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older.

 

You can get one online through the DEC website or at local sporting goods stores in Kingston and New Paltz.

 

There are daily limits on how many trout you can keep, and some waters have special regulations.

 

Local bait shops can tell you which flies are working and where the fish are biting.