Who can I contact to get a straight answer on a section of land being legal or illegal to fish in NY? I am fishing in upstate NY and would like to continue fishing a section of river owned by a NY state correctional facility. I have fished this section now for two years and run into other fisherman often in this area. On two occasions now a warden from the prison has told me I need a "permission slip from the dean of the warden". When I ask for specifics on how to obtain it and the legality of the area he gives vague answers. There are no posted signs on the correctional property and the river borders a public road with no signage. I think he is just chasing me off his buddies honey hole but I need more information.
Posted by MrAmayesing
3 Comments
Is it posted?
I could understand security concerns being close to such a facility, but would most likely be fenced and posted.
Have you tried calling the facility directly?
Try calling your DNR or whatever it’s called in your state.
If it’s not posted you are fine unless asked to leave by an employee of the facility, I’m not sure if they can legally ask you the leave the property for fishing or not as it’s state land but owned by DOCCS I assume they can, an ECO or Forest Ranger could probably give you better info. But im definitely confused by “warden” and “dean of the warden” NYSDOCCS has superintendents and deputy superintendents as the highest levels of authority in the prison they haven’t been wardens for quite awhile. Out of curiosity what facility is it ?
Contact local DNR, their word is final in regards to all natural resources in your area(usually)