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Hudson River Fishing Ban Lifted After 50 Years
Families can now enjoy eating certain fish from the lower Hudson River for the first time since the 1970s.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:35pm
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An X-ray view of a striped bass, symbolizing the renewed health and safety of the Hudson River's fish population.NYC TodayFor the first time in 50 years, the New York State Department of Health has lifted the ban on eating fish from the lower Hudson River. The updated guidance allows people, including pregnant women and children, to consume striped bass and bluefish caught between the Rip Van Winkle Bridge in Catskill and the New York City Battery. However, advisories remain in place for the upper Hudson River, where most fish should still not be eaten due to PCB contamination.
Why it matters
The lifting of the 50-year fishing ban on the lower Hudson River is a significant milestone in the river's environmental recovery. It signifies that pollution levels, particularly of PCBs, have declined to the point where certain fish species are now safe for human consumption. This is an important step in restoring the Hudson River's ecosystem and allowing residents to reconnect with this iconic waterway.
The details
The New York State Department of Health's updated guidance allows people who are pregnant or under the age of 15 to eat up to one 8-ounce meal per month of striped bass from the lower Hudson River. The general population can now eat up to four meals per month of striped bass and bluefish from this area. However, the department still advises against eating carp and smallmouth bass from the lower Hudson due to ongoing PCB contamination. The "take no fish, eat no fish" rule also remains in place for the upper Hudson River from Hudson Falls to the Federal Dam in Troy.
- The updated guidance was issued on April 3, 2026, the first day of trout fishing season in New York.
- The fishing ban on the lower Hudson River has been in place for the past 50 years.
The players
New York State Department of Health
The state agency responsible for issuing health advisories and guidance related to fish consumption in New York's waterways.
Dr. James McDonald
The New York State Health Commissioner who announced the updated guidance allowing for the consumption of certain fish from the lower Hudson River.
What they’re saying
“It's a great day when the Department can relax guidance for certain fish in the lower Hudson River, allowing people who may become pregnant and children to eat fish from one of the most important fisheries in New York State. We encourage everyone to visit us online to get the latest advice for waters across the state.”
— Dr. James McDonald, New York State Health Commissioner
What’s next
The New York State Department of Health will continue to monitor PCB levels in the Hudson River and update its fish consumption guidance as needed. Anglers are encouraged to check the department's website for the latest information before consuming any fish caught in the river.
The takeaway
The lifting of the 50-year fishing ban on the lower Hudson River is a significant environmental victory, signaling the river's recovery from past industrial pollution. This development allows residents to reconnect with the river's natural resources and enjoy the benefits of a healthier ecosystem.
