Fish & Game

Fishing in Dutchess County and the Hudson River

Throughout Dutchess County, there are numerous spots along lakes and streams for catching trout, bass, pickerel and perch, as well as places for dip-netting smelt, alewives and blueback herring. For the trout fisherman, there are miles of public access available to stocked streams and lakes, ideal for fly-fishing.

Miles of river front along the Hudson provide access for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass, striped bass, brown bullhead, carp, white catfish and American shad.

Hunting in the Hudson River Valley

Hunters and waterfowlers can challenge themselves at one of the many multiple use areas. Deer hunting season includes an archery season and gun-hunting season. You can also find pheasant, grouse, woodcock, squirrel, cotton-tail rabbit, raccoon and waterfowl in designated areas.

Contact the regional headquarters of the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation in New Paltz for specific fishing and hunting regulations, license fees, seasons, limits, sites and other relevant information before your planned visit to Dutchess County.