Hudson River

5 Fishing Charters

Top Hudson River Destinations

Top Fishing Charters in Hudson River

Fishing in Hudson River

Running through the entire state of New York, the Hudson River allows visitors to cast their lines anywhere from the Adirondack Mountains to the “Big Apple'' itself. There’s plenty to discover in these waters, and with Hudson River fishing charters to be found all along its banks, your perfect fishing trip is just a cast away!

This 315-mile river is home to both fresh and brackish waters. Perhaps the most famous fish that you can target is the feisty Striped Bass. Between April and June, an estimated one to two billion Striper are said to migrate to the brackish waters of the lower river. Local captains generally run half day and full day trips, and recommend that more experienced fishermen opt for a full day on the water to get the most out of their adventure.

The upper river’s freshwaters are home to a variety of species, including Bluegill, Yellow and White Perch, and Crappie, and Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. Smallmouth Bass are an especially good introduction to fishing for newer anglers and families with children, and a half day trip allows plenty of time to do battle with this small-but-mighty fish. Full day trips are also on offer for more experienced anglers.

The area from the Federal Dam at Albany all the way down to New York City is perfect for anglers wanting to battle Striped Bass, Bluefish, and other brackish water species. Meanwhile, Hamilton County, Catskill, and the Hudson River Gorge are must-visit locations for freshwater enthusiasts. All you need to do is find a guide nearby, pick your target species, and come explore the Hudson River’s excellent fishing opportunities for yourself!

Rules & Regulations

You don’t need a fishing license when it comes to brackish waters. Just make sure you enroll in the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. Freshwater anglers will need to purchase an NY Freshwater Fishing License. Luckily, if you’re traveling on board a charter, everything else will be provided for you. The Hudson River has strict regulations regarding which species you can keep, and your charter captain will be able to fill you in on any updates or changes.

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Hudson River Fishing Seasons

January

The weather is cold and the fishing hasn’t quite heated up yet, either. Anglers willing to make the trip to the river should head upstream. Cast your lines in its many tributaries for Bluegill and Yellow and White Perch!

February

Fishing the Hudson River can remain relatively quiet in February, with upstream tributary angling being the most popular option. Bring along the family and catch some tasty Panfish to fry up!

March

Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Smallmouth Bass fishing doesn’t open until next month, so hooking Panfish is your best bet. The waters are quiet, so this a perfect month for some relaxed freshwater fishing.

April

April heralds the true start of the Hudson River’s fishing season! Casting a line for the Bass species on offer here is now open for action, and the very first Striped Bass are making their way to the lower Hudson River.

May

As the weather heats up, so does the fishing. Striped Bass make their presence known in the waters between Albany and NYC! Combine a top fishing adventure with a day adventuring around the Big Apple.

June

Striped Bass fishing is still all the rage in the river’s brackish waters. In the freshwater part of the river, you’ll find Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass flocking upstream in droves.

July

All three Bass species are still on offer. The combination of excellent fishing and hot weather means that the river is pretty busy during this month. Forr some quieter angling action, book yourself a charter upstream.

August

The only thing hotter than the weather in August is the fishing! Bluefish and Striped Bass can be found in the lower brackish waters. Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass can be found in freshwaters.

September

The heat slowly starts to drop, resulting in mild weather with cool breezes – the perfect setup for a day of fishing! The Hudson is teeming with fish, with Striped Bass still being regularly hooked around New York City.

October

The water temperature starts to drop during this month, which may seem like a bad thing – however, it usually results in sudden runs of large Striped Bass and Bluefish in the Tappan Zee and Croton Bay areas!

November

November is many anglers’ favorite month, thanks to the huge population of Striped Bass that can be found around NYC as they migrate back to the Atlantic. It’s the last month you can legally target these fish.

December

End your year in the best way by heading out to the Hudson for a festive fishing adventure. By the end of the month, the river is usually starting to freeze over, so head out earlier in the month to target a variety of Panfish.