How to Buy Minnows in NYS

How to Buy Minnows in NYS

fish image by Einar Bog from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

New York State has hundreds of lakes, rivers and small estuaries. From the mountain lakes and rivers of the Adirondacks to the Finger Lakes of the central part of the state, anglers can fish for species such as bass, pike, walleye, perch, catfish and bullhead. Bait fishing with minnows is allowed in most lakes and rivers, and buying minnows allows you to try for the big one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • N.Y. Department of Environmental Conservation Fishing Rules and Regulations Guidebook
  • Bucket with sealed top with holes punched in the top
  • Water
Step 1
Reference the New York State DEC guidelines for the area you plan to fish. See if minnow fishing is allowed, and what restrictions or rules are in place for types of minnows allowed. Contact a NYS DEC office for information of local hatcheries should you plan on buying minnows in bulk.
Step 2
Find a bait and tackle shop near the lake or river you'll be fishing. Ask the shop employee what minnows are best in the area and if there are any new or current rules using them. Buy your minnows locally; local guides and shopkeepers typically have a solid base of knowledge for the region and what bait works best.
Step 3
Negotiate a price with a hatchery should you be buying the minnows in bulk.
Step 4
Place the purchased minnows, in the bag they came in, into the bucket with water. Try to initially have the bucket water as close as possible to the temperature of the water in the bag. Leave the bag in the bucket for 15 to 30 minutes to let the water in the bag become the same temperature.
Step 5
Rip open the bag with the minnows and allow them into the bucket water. Dispose of the bag.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

Write for Trails.com
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