Lake Ontario fish stocking
Sterling, Cayuga County, New York
Lake Ontario in Sterling, Cayuga County, New York was last stocked in May 2025 with 34,100 brown trout. Across the 4 years shown here, NYSDEC released 130,276 fish in 4 separate stockings. Stockings here are most common in May.
2026 stocking plan
From NYSDEC's published season plan. Plans can change because of weather and hatchery conditions.
| When | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| — 2026 | Brown Trout | 32,860 | 8 inches |
When Lake Ontario gets fish
Stocking history
New York reports the month of each stocking, not the exact day.
2025 · 34,100 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 34,100 | 7.9″ |
2024 · 33,170 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 33,170 | 7.8″ |
2023 · 30,996 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 30,996 | 7.8″ |
2022 · 32,010 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 32,010 | 8″ |
Frequently asked questions
When was Lake Ontario last stocked?
NYSDEC records show Lake Ontario was last stocked in May 2025 (about 17 months ago), with 34,100 brown trout.
What fish are stocked in Lake Ontario?
Lake Ontario has been stocked with brown trout in the years shown here (2022–2025).
When does Lake Ontario usually get stocked?
Most fish have been stocked in May. Exact dates change from year to year, so check back or see NYSDEC's official stocking page.
Do I need a license to fish Lake Ontario?
Yes, anglers generally need a valid New York fishing license. Check the current New York fishing regulations for seasons, limits and any special rules for Lake Ontario.
Other stocked waters in Cayuga County
Fall Creek
Dutch Hollow Brook
Owasco Inlet
Owasco Lake
Cayuga Lake
Salmon Creek
All 14 stocked waters in Cayuga County →
Source: Fish Stocking Lists (Actual) (data.ny.gov), Current Season Spring Trout Stocking (data.ny.gov). Stocked Lakes is not affiliated with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Spot a problem? Let us know.