As the new year approaches, many anglers in New York are eager to hit the waters at popular fishing spots like Jones Beach, Montauk Downs, Robert Moses, Sunken Meadow, and Long Island State Park Headquarters in West Babylon. However, before casting your line, it’s crucial to understand the permit requirements for these locations in 2024.
Jones Beach State Park
Jones Beach State Park is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of species such as striped bass, bluefish, and fluke. To fish at Jones Beach after sunset, anglers must possess a valid Night/Sport Fishing Permit. This permit is available for purchase from December 4th, 2023, to March 31, 2024, and from the Tuesday after Labor Day to December 31, 2024. The fee for NYS residents is $35, while non-residents pay $60. A valid vehicle registration is also required.
Montauk Downs State Park
Montauk Downs State Park is another popular spot for fishing, particularly for those targeting striped bass and bluefish. To fish at Montauk Downs, anglers must obtain a Four-Wheel Drive Beach Vehicle Fishing Permit. This permit is sold from December 4th, 2023, to March 31, 2024, and from the Tuesday after Labor Day to December 31, 2024. The fee is $80 for NYS residents and $125 for non-residents. A valid motor vehicle registration, driver’s license, and NYS DEC Recreational Marine Fishing Registry ID number are required.
Robert Moses State Park
Robert Moses State Park is a favorite among anglers, offering access to the ocean and the Great South Bay. To fish at Robert Moses, anglers must possess either a Four-Wheel Drive Beach Vehicle Fishing Permit or a Night/Sport Fishing Permit, depending on the location and time of day. The Four-Wheel Drive Beach Vehicle Fishing Permit is valid for fishing at Democrat Point, Gilgo, and Sore Thumb from April 1 to December 31, with 24-hour access. The Night/Sport Fishing Permit is valid for fishing at Field #2 from April 1 to December 31, with 24-hour access, and at Fields #3 and #4 from September 15 to December 31, with 24-hour access.
Sunken Meadow State Park
Sunken Meadow State Park is another excellent choice for fishing, offering access to the Long Island Sound. To fish at Sunken Meadow, anglers must obtain a Night/Sport Fishing Permit. This permit is valid for fishing at Fields #1 and #3, with 24-hour access. The permit is available for purchase from December 4th, 2023, to March 31, 2024, and from the Tuesday after Labor Day to December 31, 2024. The fee is $35 for NYS residents and $60 for non-residents.
Long Island State Park Headquarters in West Babylon
Long Island State Park Headquarters in West Babylon serves as the administrative center for the region’s state parks. While it does not offer direct fishing access, anglers can purchase permits for the aforementioned parks at this location.
It’s important to note that all fishing permits are non-refundable and must be displayed on the vehicle dashboard while fishing. Anglers must also comply with all New York State fishing regulations, including size and catch limits.
In conclusion, fishing at Jones Beach, Montauk Downs, Robert Moses, Sunken Meadow, and Long Island State Park Headquarters in West Babylon in 2024 requires specific permits. Anglers must carefully review the permit requirements for each location and purchase the appropriate permit(s) to ensure a legal and enjoyable fishing experience.