DEC Seeks Public Input on Proposed Sportfish Regulation Changes

Proposed updates aim to protect spawning fish and simplify regulations

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced proposed changes to coolwater sportfish regulations, including adjusting season closing dates, eliminating unnecessary special regulations, and modifying size and creel limits for walleye in Lake Ontario's eastern basin. The DEC is seeking public feedback on the proposals through April 13, 2026.

Why it matters

These regulation changes are intended to better protect spawning fish populations, particularly walleye and northern pike, as climate change impacts water temperatures and shifts spawning times. Simplifying regulations where possible also makes it easier for anglers to understand and comply with the rules.

The details

Key proposed changes include: moving the closing date for walleye, northern pike, chain pickerel, and tiger musky from March 15 to March 1; shifting the start date of fishing-prohibited regulations to protect spawning walleye from March 16 to March 2; eliminating unnecessary special harvest regulations for walleye in 33 waters; and modifying the size limit and daily creel limit for walleye in Jefferson County waters of Lake Ontario.

  • The proposed regulations were announced on February 16, 2026.
  • The public comment period will be open through April 13, 2026.

The players

Amanda Lefton

Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

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What they’re saying

“The proposed regulation changes for walleye, pike, pickerel, and tiger musky reflect DEC's commitment to adaptively manage New York's fisheries resources and to simplify regulations wherever possible.”

— Amanda Lefton, Commissioner (saratogian.com)

What’s next

The DEC will review public feedback on the proposed regulations and make a final decision on any changes.

The takeaway

These proposed sportfish regulation updates aim to better protect spawning fish populations and simplify rules for anglers, demonstrating the DEC's commitment to adaptively managing New York's fisheries resources in the face of climate change impacts.