Since starting in 2023, Brenden Rutigliano has been behind the rise of the Long Island, NY High School Fishing League. What began as a grassroots effort to introduce students to competitive fishing has quickly grown into one of New York’s leading school fishing programs, giving high school anglers the opportunity to compete, learn responsible fishing practices, and become part of Long Island’s fishing culture.
This year, the league is introducing an exciting new format designed to increase both competition and enjoyment for participating anglers. With several respected leaders from the fishing industry stepping in as sponsors, the upcoming season is shaping up to be the most exciting yet. East Coast Saltwater Fishing (ECSWF) has partnered with the league and is proudly funding the program, helping expand opportunities and support for student anglers across the region. Be sure to check back often for updates, announcements, and the latest league news as we prepare for a great season on the water.
NEW YORK HIGH SCHOOL FISHING LEAGUE
The fastest growing student fishing league in the Northeast
🎣 Nearly 1,000 Student Anglers
🏆 Weekly Prizes + School Championship
🌊 Multi-Species Competition
START A TEAM →
HOW TO START A TEAM
Starting a team takes 2 minutes
All you need:
✔ 3 or more students + Advisor
✔ A camera phone
✔ Internet access
Students simply catch fish, submit photos, and compete.
REGISTER YOUR TEAM →
Built for High School Anglers
The New York High School Fishing League gives students the opportunity to compete in a real fishing league while representing their school. Students submit catches and compete against anglers across the region.
The goal is simple: get more young anglers involved in fishing while building the next generation of stewards of our fisheries.
LEAGUE HIGHLIGHTS
🎣 Multi-Species Format
Saltwater Species • Freshwater Species
🏆 Weekly Student Prizes
Compete every week for individual awards.
🏫 School Championship
Teams compete for the season title.
👨🎓 Nearly 1,000 Students
One of the fastest growing youth fishing programs.
💰 Free to Join
No entry fee for students or schools
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Recreational Marine Fishing Registry
Registering helps New York fisheries managers track recreational fishing activity and collect data used to set fair seasons, size limits, and regulations. This helps protect fish populations and ensures anglers continue to have strong fishing opportunities in the future.
Fishing Licenses
A New York fishing license is required for most anglers age 16 and older who want to fish for freshwater species. Purchasing a license helps support fish stocking, habitat protection, and conservation programs that maintain healthy fisheries and public fishing opportunities across the state.