Summer Fishing Season Begins on Tioughnioga River

As the summer season gets underway, the Tioughnioga River flowing through the Marathon area provides ample opportunities for local anglers to enjoy the outdoors. The river, which spans parts of Cortland and Broome Counties, features diverse natural habitats supporting a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for recreation this time of year.

Those casting a line can anticipate finding species such as brown trout, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Specific periods offer prime conditions for certain fish; for instance, smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good from late June through October. Walleye are often more active from May through late June, and again later in the year from September to December.

Access to the Tioughnioga River is convenient for those using canoes, kayaks, or smaller car-top boats. A public boat launch is situated near the Civic Center in Marathon, located at 16 Brink Street. This facility includes a cement ramp for easier launching and an adjacent shallow dirt hand launch, with picnic amenities available nearby in the park area.

For residents who prefer bank fishing, there are four miles of Public Fishing Rights (PFR) along the river. These areas are complemented by two designated PFR parking areas, providing convenient access points. Anglers should note that while the Tioughnioga River itself is not stocked, brown trout found within its waters are either wild or have migrated downstream from stocked areas in its east and west branches.

Fishermen are encouraged to be aware of special regulations that apply to certain sections of the river. For example, fishing is prohibited in the section between the NY Route 26 bridge and the U.S. Route 11 bridge from March 16 through April 30. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has also scheduled several free fishing days for 2026, on June 27-28, September 26, and November 11. On these days, a freshwater fishing license is not required, although all other fishing regulations remain in effect.

For the most current information regarding fishing conditions and regulations, locals can consult the Central New York Fishing Hotline, available online or by calling (607) 753-1551. Additionally, the NYSDEC publishes a 2026 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Guide for comprehensive details.

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