Fishing

Catch and Release Fishing in Central Park is a favorite for all ages.

Please note: The Central Park Conservancy has suspended its catch-and-release fishing program until the spring of 2024 due to algae Harlem Meer.

Fishing is a popular community activity in Central Park, especially at the Harlem Meer which offers a youth-focused catch-and-release fishing program. 

The bodies of water in Central Park support a wide variety of fish including Black Crappie, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, Chain Pickerel, Catfish, Bass, Carp, Bluegill Sunfish, and Crayfish.

Catch-and-release fishing is allowed in Central Park at three locations:

Fishing is NOT ALLOWED at the Turtle Pond or the Reservoir.

FISHING AT HARLEM MEER 

The Harlem Meer is the preferred fishing area in the park. 

Fishing on your own is permitted with your own gear. All other rules concerning bait, tackle, and catch & release apply.

For more information email: recreation@centralparknyc.org.

The Central Park Fishing Group is a meetup group who are happy to get you started as well. 

FISHING RULES AND REGULATIONS (FISHING LICENSE)

  1. Release fish gently. All fishing is on a "catch-and-release" basis only, meaning that all fish caught must be put back into the water immediately. Please wet your hands before handling fish, and release while the fish is underwater if possible.
  2. Use safe fishing equipment. The use of barbs on hooks, lead sinkers and overhead casting rods is strictly prohibited. Monofilament line should be properly discarded of to avoid harming wildlife.
  3. Respect the turtles and waterfowl. If you see a turtle or bird near your hook, please move to another spot to avoid catching it.
  4. Please fish with fish bait (corn kernels) such as that from the Dana Center ONLY. The use of bread products and hot dogs as bait is discouraged as it has been found to be harmful to both the wildlife and the water bodies.
  5. Don't feed the wildlife. Feeding any other wildlife and digging for worms is strictly prohibited.
  6. Stay on pathways, ramps and steps next to the water. Excessive trampling of the natural shoreline and wading in the water kills the grass and causes soil erosion and compaction. This creates poor living conditions for plants, fish and other water dwellers.
  7. Visitors over age 16 and older using their own fishing equipment must have a fishing license. Visitors using equipment from the Dana Center do not need a fishing license. Get a fishing license here.

Department of Conservation: 866-933-2257 -  Mon. to Fri. 10:00 - 5:00