Northern Puffer Fishing in New York
When northern puffer are caught across New York, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Northern Puffer catch through the year
Recreational catch in New York by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching northern puffer in New York
Northern Puffer catches in New York run hardest around Sep-Oct, with the strongest two-month windows in Sep-Oct and May-Jun. Anglers keep about 46% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the New York fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch northern puffer in New York?+
Catches peak around Sep-Oct (September and October). The strongest two-month windows are Sep-Oct and May-Jun. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release northern puffer in New York?+
Across New York, about 46% of the northern puffer caught are kept and 54% are released. That works out to roughly 202K kept and 238K released in 2024.
How many northern puffer are caught in New York?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 440K northern puffer caught by recreational anglers in New York in 2024, making it the #14 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this northern puffer data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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