ALBANY, NY — A new, no-cost permit and reporting system will help keep track of where and when black bass tournaments (largemouth and smallmouth) are happening across New York state.

Black bass is the most popular freshwater sportfish in New York and among angler tournaments, said Sean Mahar, interim commissioner of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). He said the new system will give a better understanding of the tournament scene, making sure New York stays a top spot for black bass fishing.

With the surge in black bass fishing tournaments over the years, it’s been tough for DEC fisheries biologists to manage these fisheries properly, Mahar said. Data from the new reporting system, which will include tournament results, will help.

The new system will provide tournament locations and schedules to help planners and anglers alike.

The regulation was first proposed in April and, after a review of public comments, finalized. Permits are needed for black bass tournaments with 10 or more participants. 

Tournament directors can start applying for permits online on September 9 for tournaments starting on or after January 1, 2025.

For more details, including a map of permitted tournaments and links to the application and reporting forms, visit tinyurl.com/3u9uhtsc.