New York state's freshwater fishing season kicked off Saturday for walleye, northern pike, pickerel and tiger muskellunge, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation. 
 
“Fishing is a proud tradition in New York,” Acting DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a media release. “I encourage all New Yorkers and visitors to take advantage of the great fishing opportunities our state provides and celebrate the success of our efforts to sustain our popular and economically important recreational fisheries.”
 
The statewide opening day for muskellunge was changed last year on most waters to the last Saturday in May (May 28). The statewide minimum size limit was also increased to 40 inches. These regulations apply to most New York muskellunge waters. On these waters, the minimum size limit is 54 inches and the season opens on the third Saturday of June (June 18). Additional exceptions to the statewide regulations for muskellunge and other species exist; details are available in the 2016-17 Freshwater Fishing Regulations guide, at all DEC offices and sporting license vendors.
 
Anglers searching for places to fish can visit the DEC’s fishing site on its website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html. Maps of public fishing locations and boat launches can also be found on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/pubs/103457.html.
 
Anglers and boaters can help the state prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by taking appropriate measures before and after their boating or fishing trip. Anglers and boaters should be sure to clean, dry or disinfect their fishing and boating equipment, including waders and boots, before entering a new body of water, the DEC advised. Boaters should drain all water holding compartments before leaving a water body.  
 
Anglers 16 and older must have a state fishing license, which are now valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. License fees were reduced in 2014 and are now $25 for adults and $5 for senior citizens for state residents. Licenses can be purchased online and printed; purchased by phone by calling (866) 933-2257 FREE, or from license issuing agents across the state.