Many think of New York and think of the city, an urban metropolis where little, if any, outdoors activities take place. New York, however, is home to more than the hustle and bustle; it is home to some of the best outdoors activities that the East Coast has to offer.
“The Catskills are a magnificent natural jewel that offer abundant opportunities for families and friends to enjoy pristine forests, lakes, and ponds,” Commissioner Cahill said. “In addition to excellent hiking and canoeing, the Catskills offer some of the best fishing in the world.
A revised brochure, “Catskill Fishing,” is available from DEC. “Catskill trout streams have been attracting anglers for more than 150 years and today offer some of the finest trout fishing in the nation,” Acting Chief for the Bureau of Fisheries Doug Stang said.
“This brochure provides information about fishing access and public boat launches in Catskill trout streams, lakes and ponds, warm water streams, the Delaware River system and New York City reservoir system.” The brochure features a reprinted full color map and information about how to release trout, how to obtain fishing licenses, and the boundaries of public fishing rights.
“The Catskill Adventure – Hikes for Families” details the many hikes and canoe trips available in the preserve. It was funded through advertising and donations.
The publication should help open little-known areas of the Catskills to visitors. DEC will provide a shoulder patch to the first several hundred participants completing seven of the 18 hikes featured in “The Adventure.”
Hikes range from one-half to three and one-half miles – something that one can complete in one-half day. Many of the hikes are loops, so hikers will end up where they began and not have to walk back to their starting point.
Information about hiking and backpacking in the Catskill Forest Preserve is available by calling (914) 256-3188, extension 4083. Information about trail conditions is available by calling (914) 256-3188, extension 4182. These taped messages are accessible 24 hours a day.
For copies of these brochures, call or write the DEC Region 3 office at 21 South Putt Corners Road, New Paltz, NY 12561, phone (914) 256-3093.
The next time you think of New York, try not to think of the city. Think of the West Branch of the Delaware, The Beaverkill, The Willowemack. Think of some of the best trout fishing on the East Coast.
One could also think about some fantastic turkey, deer, bear, and small game hunting. Or one could think about hiking through beautiful country. Regardless, New York offers fantastic opportunities for the outdoors enthusiast, enough to make you love New York.
