DEC ANNOUNCES NEW STATE RECORD WHITE PERCH

 

Fourth State Record Fish Established in 2025

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced that a fourth fish species officially qualified as a State record catch this year. On November 23, Yongfeng Tian of Brooklyn reeled in a 3-pound, 4-ounce white perch from Cross River Reservoir in Westchester County. Mr. Tian’s record-breaking catch surpassed the previous state record white perch caught in 1991 by 3 ounces. 

“This latest State record is a testament to the incredible fishing opportunities that New York State’s waters provide,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “I would like to congratulate Mr. Tian on an impressive catch, and encourage all New Yorkers to visit DEC’s website to find an opportunity near you to catch the next record fish.” 

White perch are a common freshwater fish found in lakes and rivers throughout the state, including the Hudson River. White perch are known for their schooling behavior and once located, can provide a lot of action. They can be caught on a variety of small baits and lures, such as jigs, worms, and minnows.  

Mr. Tian submitted details of his winning catch as part of DEC’s newly revamped Angler Achievement Awards Program, which tracks State record fish and recognizes anglers who catch any of the 40 eligible fish species that meet or exceed the minimum qualifying lengths established for that species. Through this program, anglers can enter freshwater fish that meet specific qualifying criteria and receive official recognition of their catch, along with a species-specific sticker commemorating their achievement. 

The program’s three categories are Angler Award, Youth Angler Award, and State Record Award. As part of the program revamp, anglers can now submit entries for qualifying catches from the convenience of their smartphone through an online entry form. For official program rules, eligible species, and associated minimum qualifying lengths, visit the Angler Achievement Awards webpage. 

The program further supports Governor Kathy Hochul's “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by helping encourage New York State’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings.   

Anglers are encouraged to check out the Tackle Box feature in DEC’s HuntFishNY app that provides one-stop shopping for information on access sites, fish stocking, regulations, and more.