Streams
| Lakes
& Ponds | John
Burroughs
he
Catskill Mountain streams offer some of the finest
trout fishing in the Northeast. We have thousands
of miles of beautiful, quiet and well-stocked trout
streams. Most permanent streams in the higher elevations
boast natural trout populations.
Brook trout, descendents
of the original wild populations, are still widely
distributed. These brightly colored natives are found
in the smaller, higher elevation streams. Brookies
are generally the most obliging of all trout to take
on a hook.
Rainbows are found irregularly
throughout the mountains. They are dominant in some
of the larger waters including Catskill and Esopus
Creeks. Rainbows tend to be the most acrobatic of
the three trout species on the end of a line and they
provide colorful diversity to Catskill fishing.
Brown trout are the mainstay
of the Catskill trout. Their extensive distribution,
potential for large size and a well-founded reputation
as a challenging adversary have given the brown top-billing
with most of today's anglers.
Stocking is the best-known
management tool used in Catskill streams. Each year,
the DEC stocks fingerling and yearling trout throughout
the mountains, primarily in mid-to-large size streams
where trout are capable of living and growing, but
where natural reproduction is limited.
Perpetual fishing easements
have been acquired on many of our streams including
the Beaver Kill, Esopus Creek, Catskill Creek, East
and West Branches of the Delaware, Schoharie Creek.
These easements, which allow fishing only, are posted
with bright yellow and green PUBLIC FISHING SIGNS
on the stream bank.
There are many parking
areas along the streambeds. Look for wooden signs
that are painted with bright yellow lettering.
Much of the property in
the Catskills is privately owned and posted. Fishing
is generally available through the generosity of landowners.
Please ask permission before trespassing on private
land. Many landowners are nice people, and will respond
favorably to a polite request for permission to fish.
While on their land, stay away from livestock and
closed gates and don't litter, damage or engage in
any activity that would be objectionable to you if
other people were on your property. Behave and they
might let you come back. And don't forget to say Thank
you, very much.
Streams
Lakes
& Ponds
Mr.
John Burroughs
Return
to Outdoor Life Article
| 
