The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the annual sampling of the rainbow trout run at Naples Creek, Ontario County, on March 20. Sampling starts at the Naples Creek bridge, located on State Route 245, 0.25 miles east of Route 21 junction in the village, at 9 a.m. Spectators are encouraged to observe safely from a distance to enjoy this family-friendly and fun educational experience.

“Naples Creek is a significant Finger Lakes tributary that offers a unique experience of fishing opportunities for sport anglers of any age," said Timothy P. Walsh, Region 8 Director. “Sampling rainbow trout is an important function of the region's fisheries management practices and provides current data for the April 1 opening day fishing forecast, allowing for effective and efficient management of these bountiful waterways.”

Naples Creek and its tributaries are popular for their spring runs of wild rainbow trout. The sampling results are available to the public before opening day of Finger Lakes tributary season on April 1, 2025. Anglers are reminded that catch-and-release trout fishing is open for inland streams before opening day; however, Finger Lakes tributaries remain closed to fishing until April 1. Main bodies of the Finger Lakes are open to fishing year-round.

DEC encourages anglers to review current Finger Lakes fishing regulations before heading out to explore New York’s abundant waterways.