This New York State Smallmouth Bass Is HUGE!

As summer 2026 officially begins in just a few weeks, the weather across New York State has been ideal for getting outdoors and spending time on the water. For anglers, there may be no better place in the country to fish for smallmouth bass than right here in the Empire State.

With access to two Great Lakes, the Finger Lakes, and dozens of rivers and streams, New York offers some of the best freshwater fishing opportunities in the United States.

Take a Kid Fishing This Summer in New York State

Have you taken a child fishing yet this year?

It is one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences you can have. Watching a kid catch their first fish, or even their hundredth fish, is something they will never forget.

Related: New York State Record Largemouth Bass is a BEAST

Children bring a genuine excitement to every catch. It doesn’t matter whether it is the smallest sunfish in a neighborhood pond or a bass in a major lake. To them, every fish feels like a state record.

As a father of four young children, I can say from experience that fishing with your kids is one of the most rewarding things a parent can do. Not only is it emotionally fulfilling, but it also helps foster a love of the outdoors, respect for nature, and an appreciation for conservation in the next generation.

New York State’s New Smallmouth Bass Record

When it comes to actual state records, New York has an impressive list of trophy fish, and one recent catch has set a new benchmark for smallmouth bass anglers.

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), a massive 9-pound smallmouth bass was caught in 2024 on the St. Lawrence River during a fishing tournament. The fish was reeled in from approximately 30 feet of water and officially became the new New York State record.

"Using a soft plastic lure, Dante Piraino of Baldwinsville, Onondaga County, reeled in a nine-pound smallmouth bass from the St. Lawrence River while fishing in a bass tournament hosted in the city of Ogdensburg, St. Lawrence County".

The previous state record smallmouth bass was caught in Cayuga Lake.

For anglers who dream of landing a trophy fish, this catch is the new gold standard.

Smallmouth Bass Season in New York State

The regular bass season in most of New York State opens on June 15.

If you plan to keep bass, they generally must measure at least 12 inches in length, although some waters have different regulations and minimum size limits.

Related: Massive Yellow Perch Caught in New York State

Catch-and-release fishing for bass is permitted from December 1 through June 14 in most areas, provided the fish are returned immediately to the water.

Anglers should also be aware that specific rules may apply regarding the types of bait and tackle that can be used depending on the waterbody and season.

Lake Erie Is a Smallmouth Bass Paradise

For anglers in Western New York, Lake Erie is widely considered one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries in the world.

"Smallmouth bass are the most frequently caught fish species in Lake Erie and fishing trips for smallmouths make up about 25% of all Lake Erie fishing trips for the entire year".

The lake consistently produces trophy-sized fish and attracts anglers from across the country. In recent years, some truly incredible smallmouth bass have been caught in Lake Erie, reinforcing its reputation as a world-class destination for bass fishing.

If you love chasing bronzebacks, there are few better places to cast a line.

Don’t Forget Your New York Fishing License

Before heading out, make sure your New York State Department of Environmental Conservation fishing license is current.

Most anglers age 16 and older are required to have a valid New York State fishing license.

Get Ready for an Exciting Summer on the Water

As the unofficial start of summer arrives, now is the perfect time to organize your tackle, check your gear, and make plans for a season full of memories.

Whether you land a record-breaking smallmouth bass or simply experience the joy of seeing a child catch a fish for the first time, fishing in New York State offers unforgettable moments.

Who knows? This summer could be the one when you catch the fish of a lifetime.