New York's Angler Achievement Awards Program recognizes anglers who catch a BIG fish. Congratulations to the 774 anglers who received an award for their impressive catch in 2025. Of those, 561 received an Angler Award and 213 received a Youth Angler Award. The top five species caught included largemouth bass (114), smallmouth bass (96), walleye (44), bluegill (44), and yellow perch (43). For a complete list of award winners, check out the 2025 Angler Achievement Award Recipients (PDF). We hope to see more great catches in 2026!
Through this program, a unique sticker and letter are awarded for eligible catches that meet a minimum qualifying length in either the Angler Award or Youth Angler Award (under 16 years old) category throughout the year. The program also recognizes state record catches, with recipients receiving an award plaque, letter, and pin, as well as recognition in the state record list. In 2025, four new state records were set for fallfish, channel catfish, brook trout, and white perch!
If you happen to catch a big fish that qualifies for an award or state record this upcoming year, be sure to submit your form within 30 days from your catch. For more details, including rules of entry and how to submit a catch, check out the New York Angler Achievement Awards Program.
Photos from left to right starting at the top: Joy M. (Youth Angler Award) with an 8-inch bluegill; Mark J. (Angler Award) with a 31-inch walleye; Dylan S. (Youth Angler Award) with a 14.5-inch yellow perch; Robert D., Jr. (Angler Award) with a 20.25-inch largemouth bass.