Fall has arrived in New York State and for many, it is the elite season of the year! The weather has been ideal and for those who love to be outdoors and it seems to be staying that way for the next week or so.

New York State is loaded with natural beauty. There are not many states that can boast about having two Great Lakes, a slew of mountains including the world-famous Adirondacks! Not to mention, the thousands of lakes, streams, rivers and wide open spaces!

If you love to hike, hunt or fish, this New York State is a great place to live; taxes aside.

But having this much natural beauty and resources means that there is a big responsibility that comes with them.

Here in New York State, we have a great deal of laws in place that impact fishing and hunting and one of them caught my attention.

READ MORE: BEST Place To Catch Trout In New York State

Have you been out fishing this season? Not everyone is hunting when the fall comes around. In fact, the fishing is even better this time of the year and many are having big success!

But when you fish, and are successful, the "100 Foot" rule comes in to play.

100 Foot Rule Explained

According to the New York State DEC, when you fish and are ready to clean the fish you catch, "It is illegal to discard any fish carcass, or parts thereof, into the freshwaters of the state within 100 feet of shore or upon any public or private lands contiguous to and within 100 feet of such water".

There are exceptions to the rule as well.

Good luck this year! We have four kids who all LOVE to fish and we typically catch and release. However, grilled or smoked trout make a great lunch or dinner!!

 

New York State Free Fishing Days 2026

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the return of New York State's free fishing days for 2026. There are other programs offered, like a rod loaner program and a learn to fish program. The license requirement will be waived for freshwater fishing on the following dates:

Gallery Credit: Canva

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