The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the release of a five-year (2025–2029) Fisheries Management Plan for Lake George in Washington, Essex and Warren County in hopes of reversing poor performance of the former management plan.
DEC found overall poorer health in the lake trout population despite fishing regulations and also determined that existing Atlantic salmon stocking is failing to create a viable, sustainable fishery.
The new plan calls for DEC to focus on collecting data on the long-stocked Atlantic salmon, assessing status and overall health of adult lake trout, and monitoring the black bass population to inform a new long-term fisheries management plan.
DEC says it will also implement a net pen release strategy to improve the number of Atlantic salmon and help determine the fate of the existing Atlantic salmon stocking program.
In 2023, DEC conducted an angler creel survey that reported both recreational and professional anglers seeking Atlantic salmon or lake trout had concerns with the amount and size of the fish they caught.
A net pen release strategy keeps hatchery-raised yearling salmon within the safety of a net as they acclimate to the lake. DEC is also expected to implement a standardized sampling protocol to assess the ongoing health of black bass in Lake George.
Lake George has long been a popular tourist destination. In 2025, DEC announced a $100 million investment from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and other capital funds for State hatchery improvements, including enhancements at the Adirondack Fish Hatchery.
To review the plan, which includes a timeline of management actions through 2029, visit DEC’s website.
Read more about New York State fisheries.
Photo of Lake George Narrows courtesy Lake George Land Conservancy.
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