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Hudson River

Boat Ramps
17
Access Points
18
Species
26

The Hudson River is a diverse and productive waterway that stretches 315 miles from its headwaters in the Adirondack Mountains to New York Harbor. This iconic river transitions from a freshwater system in its northern reaches to a tidal estuary as it approaches the Atlantic Ocean. With more than 200 species of fish inhabiting its waters, the Hudson offers exceptional fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels throughout New York and along its shared border with New Jersey. The river's ecosystem is characterized by both freshwater habitats in the upper reaches and brackish water downstream, creating distinctive fishing zones with unique species assemblages. From trophy striped bass in the spring to smallmouth bass in the summer and trout in the tributaries, the Hudson River provides year-round fishing potential in a variety of settings.


Fish stocking schedule

Latest 5 stockings

  • Rainbow Trout6,240 fish · plannedSpring 2026
  • Brown Trout5,300 fish · plannedSpring 2026
  • Rainbow Trout100 fish · 12.2 inOctober 2025
  • Brook Trout500 fish · 8.3 inOctober 2025
  • Rainbow Trout14,900 fish · 4.3 inJune 2025

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 Hudson 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 Hudson 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 Hudson 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 Hudson River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

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

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Hudson River and check the forecast before you go.

HUDSON RIVER NEAR POUGHKEEPSIE NY

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