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Fishing at the William C. Whitney Area
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Fishing at the William C. Whitney Area
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Brook Trout "Heritage Strain"
Little Tupper Lake is the home of a genetically unique "heritage" strain of brook trout. Along with a variety of native minnows, the population of the Little Tupper Lake strain are the direct descendants of the first trout to have reached the lake after the glaciers receded about 12,000 years ago. The Whitney family have successfully prevented the introduction of predatory and competing nonnative fish species, such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. Consequently, Little Tupper Lake may be the largest lake in the eastern United States with its original strain of trout.
Two other waters within the William C. Whitney Area harbor the Little Tupper Lake strain: Rock Pond and Bum Pond. Lilypad Pond and Little Salmon Lake support brook trout, but not the Tupper Lake strain.
During the interim management period, special fishing regulations will be enforced to help protect the the genetically unique heritage strain. This strict regulation will give DEC an opportunity to fully assess the Little Tupper Lake fishery and to obtain data so that final management decisions can be based on sound science. General angling regulations will be in place for all other species. Artificial lures only will be allowed; the use of bait fish or worms will be prohibited for all waters within the area. This will protect the heritage strain from accidental introduction of non-native fish species. The special interim regulations are in effect and will be posted at the headquarters. A catch-and-release regulation for trout will be enforced.
