The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced a new State record brook trout. Benjamin Ferguson, a dedicated brook trout angler from Lowville, Lewis County, caught a 22-inch, six-pound three-ounce “brookie” from the St. Regis Canoe Area on July 5, 2025, edging out the 2013 record by three ounces. The record-breaking fish was caught while slow trolling a Lake Clear Wabbler.
“This new State record brook trout is particularly special given our commitment to advancing the conservation of this iconic species,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Benjamin Ferguson’s record-setting catch further highlights this unique resource, which only the Adirondacks can provide.”
Ferguson submitted details of his winning catch as part of DEC's newly revamped Angler Achievement Awards Program, which tracks State record fish and recognizes anglers that catch any of the 40 eligible fish species that meet or exceed the minimum qualifying lengths established for that species. Anglers with qualifying catches receive official recognition, along with a species-specific sticker commemorating their achievement.
The program’s three categories are: Angler Award; Youth Angler Award; and State Record. As part of the program revamp, anglers are now able to submit entries for qualifying catches from the convenience of a smart phone through an online entry form. For official program rules, eligible species, and associated minimum qualifying lengths, visit the Angler Achievement Awards webpage.
The Angler Achievement Awards Program supports Governor Kathy Hochul's “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by helping encourage New York’s children and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. Anglers are encouraged to check out the Tackle Box feature in DEC’s HuntFishNY app that provides one-stop-shopping for information on access sites, stocking, fishing regulations, and more.
