Fishing League OFFICIALLY Launches Teams are Forming NY Boat Show Recap

This week’s Bay Rats & Buoys episode is a full NY Boat Show recap mixed with a major announcement that’s been building for months — the official launch of the TheFishingLeague.com website and the opening of league registration. Phase One is officially live, teams are forming, and the countdown to the 2026 season has begun. We had an incredible five days podcasting live from the New York Boat Show at the Jacob Javits Center, meeting anglers, captains, exhibitors, and listeners from all over the Tri-State area. The energy on the floor was unreal, and this episode is packed with shout-outs to the people who made the week so special. Huge thanks to Amanda, franchise owner of Long Island Paddle Pub, Kurt and Brandon from Pursuit Boats, James from the NYC Pirates, Chris from the Montauk Canyon Challenge, and Captain Amal from Big Apple Charters NYC, along with so many others who stopped by the booth to talk fishing, boating, and community. If you were at the show — there’s a good chance you’re mentioned in this episode. This video also serves as the official launch video for TheFishingLeague.com! We break down exactly how the league works, what anglers can expect in Year One, and how Phase One of the website is designed to get teams registered and locked in early. The league will cover the entire Long Island Sound, with multiple divisions built for everyday anglers, families, charter captains, and shore fishermen. Registration is now open, teams are already forming, and early sign-ups will have a serious advantage heading into opening day. While this is only Phase One of the site, it’s the most important step — building the teams, setting the foundation, and growing a competitive but community-driven league that’s focused on fun, fairness, and bragging rights. We’re also looking ahead to our next stop — this weekend at the Copiague Fire Department Marine Unit Fishing Expo, happening January 31st from 9AM–2PM at 320 Great Neck Road. Bay Rats & Buoys will be there, so come say hello, talk fishing, ask questions about the league, and get registered in person. Big things are happening. The league is live. The teams are forming. Welcome to the next chapter of Bay Rats & Buoys.