Third Lake Essex Chain fish stocking
Minerva, Essex County, New York
Third Lake Essex Chain in Minerva, Essex County, New York was last stocked in May 2025 with 2,100 rainbow trout. Across the 4 years shown here, NYSDEC released 9,360 fish in 8 separate stockings. Stockings here are most common in April and May.
2026 stocking plan
From NYSDEC's published season plan. Plans can change because of weather and hatchery conditions.
| When | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| — 2026 | Rainbow Trout | 2,080 | 8 inches |
When Third Lake Essex Chain gets fish
Stocking history
New York reports the month of each stocking, not the exact day.
2025 · 2,410 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | 2,100 | 8.1″ | |
| Landlocked Salmon | 310 | 7″ |
2024 · 2,400 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landlocked Salmon | 300 | 6.5″ | |
| Rainbow Trout | 2,100 | 8.4″ |
2023 · 2,270 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landlocked Salmon | 270 | 6.8″ | |
| Rainbow Trout | 2,000 | 8.4″ |
2022 · 2,280 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landlocked Salmon | 280 | 6.5″ | |
| Rainbow Trout | 2,000 | 8.5″ |
Frequently asked questions
When was Third Lake Essex Chain last stocked?
NYSDEC records show Third Lake Essex Chain was last stocked in May 2025 (about 17 months ago), with 2,100 rainbow trout.
What fish are stocked in Third Lake Essex Chain?
Third Lake Essex Chain has been stocked with landlocked salmon and rainbow trout in the years shown here (2022–2025).
When does Third Lake Essex Chain usually get stocked?
Most fish have been stocked in April and 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 Third Lake Essex Chain?
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 Third Lake Essex Chain.
Other stocked waters in Essex County
Schroon Lake
Chapel Pond
Lower Cascade Lake
Palmer Dam Pond
Upper Cascade Lake
Avalanche Lake
All 167 stocked waters in Essex 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.