FISHING

Known for its breathtaking beauty, from its Adirondack sources to the steep cliffs of the Highlands, the Hudson River left early explorers filled with awe. Later it was the inspiration for an entire school of artists and writers, including the landscapes of Thomas Cole and stories by Washington Irving. Today Dutchess County’s 30 miles of Hudson River frontage, and a multitude of streams, creeks and lakes, provides visitors a myriad of aquatic recreation and sightseeing options.

Beginning in the early 19th century, the Hudson River became a major mercantile shipping corridor. It was an important factor in allowing New York City to become a dominant commercial hub. The Vanderbilts, Livingstons and other wealthy industrialists selected sweeping riverfront parcels on which to build magnificent estates. Eventually the level of development began to tarnish the river, and pollution began to erode people’s relationship with the majestic waterway.

During the past two decades, environmentalists and communities have worked hard to reclaim the Hudson River. Water quality has markedly improved, and residents and visitors are again forming leisure and commercial connections to the river. Fishing, swimming, hiking, riverboat touring, waterside dining and other aquatic pleasures are attracting tourists to the Hudson River.

Among those most excited about the resurgence of the Hudson River are fishing enthusiasts. Competitive anglers from across the Northeast look forward each year in spring to the Hudson River Striped Bass Derby. The fishing boundaries run from the George Washington Bridge north to the Troy Dam near Albany. The competition is open to all 12 years of age and older. Contestants can fish from boat or shore, and fly fishing is also included. Several cash awards are presented. If someone reels in the heaviest fish weighted above the New York State Inland Waterways Striped Bass Record, they will win major prizes.

The current New York State record for Hudson River striped bass is a whopping 54 pounds, 8 ounces. However, the river is noted for many species. It is also a major fishery for black bass and a regular stop on the Bass Masters national tournament circuit. The river is also home to perch, catfish and sunfish.

In addition to the Hudson River, Dutchess County’s streams are well-stocked with trout (brown, rainbow and brook), bass (smallmouth, largemouth and rock), blue gills, sunfish and bullheads. In fact, the DEC stocks Dutchess County’s streams with almost 60,000 trout each season. Some noteworthy spots include the Roeliff Jansen Kill Creek in Milan; Crum Elbow Creek in Clinton and Hyde Park; Ten Mile River in Amenia, Dover and Wingdale; and Wappingers Creek, which runs through numerous towns and villages from Pine Plains in the north to Wappingers Falls in the south.

A varied collection of more than 25 lakes and ponds scattered throughout Dutchess County provide lots of opportunities for fishing aficionados. Species that thrive in these aquatic environments include small and largemouth bass, pickerel, pan fish, blue gills, perch and crappie. Standout locations include Davis Pond in Poughkeepsie, Fallkill Pond in Poughkeepsie, Stissing Lake in Pine Plains, Sylvan Lake in Beekman and Whaley Lake in Pawling. In Clinton, Long Pond and Upton Lake are also worthy destinations.

There are a variety of bait and tackle shops, from mom and pop operations selling worms to high-end retailers dealing the finest in fly fishing equipment and accessories. Don’s Tackle Service in Red Hook offers a full line of equipment and apparel by Orvis and other leading manufacturers. Two-day fly fishing schools are held regularly, and during winter, the shop puts on a six-week fly tying workshop. Guided fishing tours can be arranged in Dutchess County and throughout the Hudson Valley. For Southern Dutchess anglers, try Fisherman’s World in Wappingers, right next to the creek. You can also pick up your NYS fishing-hunting licenses there.

There are a few important dates to keep in mind for fishing in Dutchess County. Per the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, trout season kicks off on April 1 and continues until October 15. Anglers will also wish to note that prime time for shad fishing in Dutchess County is from mid-April through mid-May. These dates coincide with the height of the shad spawning run in the Hudson River. For adults who wish to interest a younger person in the sport of fishing, the annual “Get Hooked on Fishing Weekend” in early May is a perfect introduction. Held at Morgan Lake Park in Poughkeepsie, the event is for children age 16 and younger. Those who wish to compete are eligible for trophies and prizes.

The calendar is also filled with Hudson River-themed festivals that underscore the revitalized connection between Dutchess County communities and the waterway. The Hudson River is the backdrop for the Poughkeepsie Riverfront Arts Festival, held in September. Jazz, blues, folk, rock n’ roll, artists, a juried craft show, antiques, an international food festival, as well as other family entertainment are all part of the party. The Beacon Sloop Club holds three festivals a year from spring to fall, the Strawberry & Corn Festivals, and the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Flea Market. Weather permitting, the club offers free sails on the Hudson River Sloop “Woody Guthrie.” All festivals take place at the Riverfront Park in Beacon.