NEW YORK STATE —  The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) wants to remind the public that now that trout season has begun anglers have the opportunity to fish at the its reservoirs or dozens of other properties it owns with access to streams rivers and lakes in the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley.

According to a press release from the DEP, “New York City’s water supply features some of the best trout fishing in the Northeast. Its 22 reservoirs and lakes, covering roughly 36,000 acres, are open for fishing from shore or approved boats. Most of the reservoirs include deep water that is ideal for coldwater species such as trout, and habitat suitable for bass and other warm water species. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation outlines statewide fishing regulations, including information on licenses, catch limits, and stocking, on its website www.dec.ny.gov. Those fishing on the City’s reservoirs must also have a free DEP Access Permit.

“Thousands of anglers each year visit New York City’s reservoirs, which offer world-class fishing amid the scenic beauty of the Catskills and Hudson Valley,” DEP Commissioner Vincent Sapienza said. “The anglers are great stewards of our natural resources, and they deserve credit for collaborating with DEP on projects that keep our waterways clean for future generations. We look forward to working with them on projects in the future, and on improving the breadth and ease of fishing access across the watershed.”

Information about the species of fish located at the various water bodies and about the rules and regulations regarding fishing in DEP waters can be found at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html.