It's officials. A Central New York angler has set a new state fishing record.

Dante Piraino of Baldwinsville reeled in a winning smallmouth bass just a few months after a record was set for largemouth bass. That honor went to James Britenbaugh of Pennsylvania who caught a record-breaking 12-pound, 6-ouncer from Cayuga Lake in July.

Smallmouth bass are one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish in New York State. They often leap out of the water, making them a highly desirable sportfish for anglers. They can be found in cooler lakes, rivers, and creeks with the St. Lawrence River being one of the best places to fish.

Credit - stammphoto/Think Stock
Credit - stammphoto/Think Stock
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Record Smallmouth Bass

Piraino's new record-breaking smallmouth bass came from the famed St Lawrence River. He reeled in a 9-pounder during a fishing tournament in Ogdensburg on September 22, 2024. It beat the previous 2022 record by 8 ounces.

READ MORE: Changes Coming to Bass Fishing Tournaments in New York

“New York provides some of the best bass fishing in the country and Mr. Piraino’s incredible catch is a testament to the outstanding angler opportunities across the state,” Interim Commissioner Mahar said.

record smallmouth bass in new york
Credit - NYS DEC
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Fishing License

If you want to fish in New York State, you'll need a fishing license if you are 16 years of age or older:

  • Freshwater fish by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups.
  • Frogs by spearing, catching with the hands, or by use of a club or hook.
  • Freshwater baitfish for personal use.

READ MORE: Fishing Records in New York State

No Fishing License Required

  • Fishing on a licensed fishing preserve.
  • Fishing during the free fishing weekend.
  • Fishing at a free fishing clinic.
  • A resident landowner primarily engaged in farming (including lessees and members of their immediate families) when fishing on farm lands they are occupying and cultivating.
  • A farm fish pond license holder (including members of their immediate families) fishing on waters covered by the license.
  • A Native American living and fishing on reservation land.
  • A patient residing at a qualifying U.S. Veterans Administration hospital or facility in New York State.

10 Best Lakes in New York To Reel in the Big One

Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams

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