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East Branch Delaware River

Boat Ramps
2
Access Points
13
Species
30

The East Branch Delaware River flows approximately 75 miles through the scenic Catskill region of New York before joining the West Branch at Hancock to form the main Delaware River. This picturesque waterway is divided into two distinct sections by the Pepacton Reservoir. Above the reservoir, the river features slow flows with deeper, weedier sections that are stocked annually with brown trout. Below the Pepacton Reservoir dam, the East Branch transforms into a premier tailwater fishery supporting wild populations of brown and rainbow trout, with occasional brook trout. This tailwater section is renowned for its excellent fly fishing opportunities, particularly for brown trout known for their fighting spirit and substantial size. The river has historical significance dating back to the 1800s and continues to attract anglers from around the world seeking quality wild trout fishing in beautiful surroundings.


Fish stocking schedule

Latest 5 stockings

  • Brown Trout20 fish · 11.9 inApril 2025
  • Brown Trout160 fish · 7.1 inApril 2025
  • Brown Trout110 fish · 11.9 inApril 2025
  • Brown Trout1,420 fish · 7.1 inApril 2025
  • Brown Trout550 fish · 8.4 inApril 2024

Source

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Updated Nov 13, 2026. Sizes are the length the agency reports. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.

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Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on East Branch Delaware River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on East Branch Delaware River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

New York licenses and regulations

New York Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the weblink below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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New York Fishing License

"You need a fishing license if you are 16 years and older and fishing for: -Freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups. -Frog species by spearing, catching with the hands, or by use of a club or hook. -Freshwater baitfish for personal use."

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New York Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you to check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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New York Stream Access Laws

Public Fishing Rights (PFRs) are permanent easements purchased by NYSDEC from willing landowners, giving anglers the right to fish and walk along the bank (usually a 33' strip on one or both banks of the stream). This right is for the purpose of fishing only and no other purpose. Fishing privileges may be available on some other private lands with the permission of the landowner. Courtesy toward the landowner and respect for their property will ensure their continued use.

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Take East Branch Delaware River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around East Branch Delaware River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for East Branch Delaware River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish East Branch Delaware River and check the forecast before you go.

EAST BRANCH DELAWARE RIVER AT HARVARD NY

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