This Westchester County Fish Story Is One For The Record Books

CROSS RIVER, NY — A record catch is making news out of Westchester County, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

The agency announced that a fourth fish species has now officially qualified as a state record catch this year.

On Nov. 23, angler Yongfeng Tian, of Brooklyn, caught a 3-pound, 4-ounce white perch while fishing at the Cross River Reservoir, in Westchester County.

Tian's record-breaking catch surpassed the previous state record white perch caught in 1991 by a full 3 ounces.

"This latest State record is a testament to the incredible fishing opportunities that New York State's waters provide,” NYSDEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. "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."

According to the NYS DEC, 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, including jigs, worms, and minnows.

Tian submitted details of his winning catch as part of the 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 their smartphone through an online entry form. For official program rules, eligible species, and associated minimum qualifying lengths, visit the Angler Achievement Awards webpage.