Counting fish along the Hudson River

PEEBLES ISLAND — This is the day for counting fish along the banks and piers of the Hudson River.

It’s the annual Great Hudson River Estuary Fish Count.

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We were there today for the fish count at Peebles Island, but there were 11 sites where the public could watch.

People are encouraged to help collect fish using nets, traps, or rods and reels.

It’s a chance to learn about the many fish species that call the Hudson River their home.

“We are way behind on our education and outreach as far as getting people to the river, teaching them about the ecology of the river and showing them the different species,” said Aquatic Biologist Scott Wells with the NYS DEC Bureau of Fisheries. “There are over 75 different species of fish in the Mohawk system. About half are non-native, so we have some issues with invasive species and we’re working on all of that.”

The fish are released after everyone gets a good look.

Wells says one of his favorite is parts is engaging the public and getting them down to the river.