The targets are listed by county and water body, and give an indication of the average size of fish to be stocked and when the stocking is planned. DEC is continually updating its Web site to provide the public with helpful information on programs to protect and preserve New York State's environment and natural resources. The site is visited more than 12,000 times each week by people interested in the more than 2,500 pages of information posted on the site. Anglers can check on fishing regulations, download a mail-in license application form, view the latest weekly report on fishing conditions in the Great Lakes or Finger Lakes areas, or discover opportunities for youths to learn about fishing. Anglers also can find information about the state record fish, get tips on some of the best fishing waters in New York State, or locate public boat launches and marinas, and follow links to other fish and fish-related sites.
Long Island lakes, ponds and streams typically provide excellent early season trout angling.
For premier early season fly fishing action, the Carmans, Connetquot and Nissequogue rivers in Suffolk County are highly recommended. Tidal sections of these waters also provide excellent fishing opportunities and include trophy-size fish. For anglers who prefer to fish still waters, Laurel Lake, Upper Lake, Lower Lake, East Lake, West Lake, and Argyle Lake are recommended in Suffolk County. In Nassau County, Upper Twin Pond, Oyster Bay Mill Pond and Massapequa Reservoir are good bets. Many of these waters hold over a good number of fish from one year to the next, increasing the opportunity to catch a lunker.