Fishing is a popular pastime in New York City, with the East River offering a unique opportunity to catch a variety of fish right in the heart of the city. However, before you cast your line, it’s important to understand the licensing requirements and regulations for fishing in the East River.
Fishing License Requirements
In New York State, anyone 16 years of age or older is required to have a fishing license when fishing in both freshwater and saltwater. This includes the East River, which is considered a saltwater body due to its connection to the Atlantic Ocean via the Long Island Sound and New York Harbor.
There are several types of fishing licenses available, including annual, 7-day, and 1-day licenses for both residents and non-residents. Licenses can be purchased online through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website, by phone, or from authorized license issuing agents throughout the state.
It’s important to note that while a fishing license is required for those 16 and older, there are certain exemptions. Children under 16 can fish for free, and there are also free or reduced-fee licenses available for certain groups, such as seniors, disabled individuals, and Native Americans living on reservations.
Saltwater Fishing Registration
In addition to a fishing license, anglers fishing in New York’s marine and coastal district, including the East River, must also enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. This free registry is required for anyone 16 and older fishing for migratory fish of the sea and saltwater fish species.
The registry is not required for harvesting crabs, lobsters, whelk, or shellfish. However, a separate Lobster Recreational Permit is required for New York State residents to harvest lobsters.
Fishing Regulations and Restrictions
When fishing in the East River, anglers must follow all applicable city, state, and federal laws and regulations. This includes adhering to size and possession limits for various fish species, as well as using non-stainless steel hooks and lead-free fishing sinkers.
In New York City parks, including the East River Esplanade and John V. Lindsay East River Park, fishing is permitted except in open swimming areas or where specifically prohibited. Anglers must obey all posted guidelines and remove any fishing line fragments and hooks from land and waters.
Freshwater fishing in NYC parks is catch-and-release only, with the use of barbed hooks prohibited. The use of traps to catch fish and/or crustaceans is not allowed in areas under NYC Parks jurisdiction.
Fishing Spots and Accessibility
The East River offers several accessible fishing spots along its shoreline. The East River Esplanade, which runs from 96th Street to 125th Street, provides opportunities to fish for species such as white perch, striped bass, flounder, black sea bass, oyster toadfish, and eels.
The John V. Lindsay East River Park, which stretches for 1.5 miles along the East River waterfront, also offers numerous fishing locations. Anglers can fish for striped bass, flounder, black sea bass, oyster toadfish, and eels almost anywhere along this park’s shoreline.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience, it’s recommended to check the tide and weather conditions before heading out, and to be mindful of other park users and activities.
Conservation and Sustainability
Fishing in the East River and other New York City waterways plays an important role in conservation and sustainability efforts. By purchasing fishing licenses and following regulations, anglers contribute to the management and protection of fish populations and their habitats.
The DEC and NYC Parks work together to monitor fish populations, enforce regulations, and promote responsible fishing practices. Anglers can support these efforts by reporting any illegal fishing activities, properly disposing of fishing line and hooks, and practicing catch-and-release when possible.
Additionally, the use of lead-free fishing sinkers and non-stainless steel hooks helps minimize the impact on wildlife and the environment. Lead weights can be toxic to birds and other animals if ingested, while stainless steel hooks can persist in the environment for a long time if lost or discarded.
By following the rules and regulations, anglers can enjoy fishing in the East River while contributing to the long-term health and sustainability of the city’s waterways and fish populations.