Fishing Regulations

One of the joys of living in the Town of Hempstead is its proximity to the water. This provides ample fishing and shellfishing opportunities. Those who enjoy the sport can catch a wide variety of fish in both oceans and bays.

Whether you enjoy fishing from a dock, party boat, or a private vessel, it is important to know the local varieties of fish and the regulations that are in place to ensure that the species remain plentiful for years to come.

These pages provide the names and numbers of many charter and party boat companies, fishing stations and bait and tackle shops, and a list of pier and surf fishing locations. There is also a fishing chart indicating when the fish are in season, where to catch them, what bait to use, and the regulations for certain types of fish.

New York State Fishing License Requirements

All anglers, 16 years of age and older, fishing for saltwater species in the marine and coastal district waters must register with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Enrollment in the registry is free for saltwater fishing and may be done in person at the Hempstead Town Clerk's Office (call 516-812-3513 for details), online through NYS DEC Online Sporting License Sales System or by telephone (Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm) 866-933-2257. Anglers will be issued an NYS license/registration card which must be carried while angling. Marine and coastal district anglers are not required to be registered if fishing aboard a licensed party or charter boat. Anglers, 16 years of age and older, fishing in freshwater in New York must register with the New York State DEC for a fishing license (an NYS DEC $25 registration fee applies; seniors $5, saltwater license is no fee).

For further information about the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry, please visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation or call 631-444-0438.