St. Lawrence smallmouth ties N.Y. State record
Category: press release
Oct 3rd, 2016 by OutdoorsFIRST
Modified Oct 3rd, 2016 at 12:00 AM
Germantown, N.Y. resident Patrick Hildenbrand caught an 8 lb. 4 oz. smallmouth bass from the St. Lawrence River on August 28 during a fishing tournament in the Thousand Islands Region, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced today.
The impressive catch ties the state record for a smallmouth bass caught from Lake Erie in 1995.
“New York’s Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River region is a premier destination for both resident and non-resident anglers seeking a memorable fishing experience,” said DEC Commissioner Seggos. “From trophy trout and salmon to tackle-busting smallmouth bass and muskellunge, the region provides a wide range of outstanding fishing opportunities.”
New York’s Great Lakes and tributaries have provided 12 of the 45 current state records. The St. Lawrence River/Thousand Islands area is particularly well known for its outstanding smallmouth bass fishery and is the site of numerous recent national bass tournaments. Smallmouth bass are among the most exciting freshwater fish to catch, often making impressive leaps out of the water when hooked and putting on a prolonged strong battle.
A listing of all fishing records can be found on New York State Freshwater Fishing Records web page on DEC’s website. For more information about the Angler Achievement Awards Program, including a downloadable application form, go to DEC’s website. Program details and an official entry form can also be found in DEC’s current Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide. For additional information on the Angler Achievement Awards Program call (518) 402-8891.