As the spring fishing season approaches across Central New York, state researchers and tourism leaders have organized workshops to help boat captains prepare for the tourism season in the months ahead on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River.
New York Sea Grant will host a free Charter Captain Workshop scheduled for April 29 in Oswego. The workshop will take place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the McCrobie Civic Center. The session will focus on fisheries research updates, boating safety information and seasonal conditions affecting anglers across the region.
Organizers said the workshops will address native fish habitats, safe boating practices and new equipment recommendations such as electronic distress signal devices and life jackets that meet Coast Guard approval.
Tourism leaders emphasized that charter captains play an important role in the regional economy by attracting visitors to waterfront communities each year. Fishing trips support local businesses and help strengthen tourism across areas along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River.
Researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey and SUNY Oswego are also planning presentations on regional fish species, including alewife, salmon and yellow perch.
The workshop is free to attend and does not require registration.
