ALBANY – No fishing is allowed in a 12-mile stretch of the Esopus Creek from the Shandaken Tunnel inlet in Allaben down to Ashokan Reservoir. The ban affects the adjoining portion of the Ashokan Reservoir downstream to where Traver Hollow Stream enters the reservoir.
The DEC said the regulation, which is in effect until January 31, 2017, is necessary to protect trout and other fish in the creek.
Due to prolonged dry conditions, the creek and its tributary streams are experiencing low water flow, creating a stressful environment for trout, DEC officials said. During those low-flow conditions, fish are more vulnerable to natural predators. Officials said additional stress on the fish from fishing may impact their ability to spawn and produce the next generation of trout.
