The new black bass tournament permit and reporting system is officially live. For tournaments that begin on or after January 1, 2025, tournament directors can now apply for black bass tournament permits via an online permitting system. Black bass tournament permits are only required for fishing tournaments where black bass (largemouth bass and smallmouth bass) are the targeted species, and the tournament has 10 or more participants.

As part of this online system, a live, interactive map displaying where upcoming permitted tournaments will be held is also available. This map will not only help tournament organizers plan their events, but also help non-tournament anglers plan their outings.

Having this system in place will help us understand the extent of tournament activity around the state and will ultimately help us manage and promote the quality bass fisheries that New York is known for.

More Information: Black Bass Fishing Tournament Permit