Long Island, Metro NY - Freshwater Fishing Reports

Over at River Bay Outfitters in Baldwin, Paul reported the recent storm has left Long Island’s freshwater fishing waters running high and off-color, with ponds, lakes, and streams all feeling the effects of the heavy rain. Fishing conditions are challenging right now, but as the water begins to drop and clarity improves, things should start to pick up. The Long Island Flyrodders recently made a trip to the Beaverkill, where Sean had a productive day fishing a dry-dropper rig, a great approach for covering both the surface and subsurface. A Stimulator or Elk Hair Caddis paired with a Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, or small Perdigon makes an effective combination when trout are feeding at different levels. With higher water throughout the region, focus on softer seams, slower edges, and the inside bends where trout can find relief from the current. Here on Long Island, pond anglers should try Woolly Buggers, small Clouser Minnows, and olive or black leech patterns, fishing them slowly along drop-offs and weed edges. For panfish, small Pheasant Tails, soft hackles, and foam terrestrials can produce when conditions improve. As the water settles and clears, look for more consistent action across our local ponds and streams. Keep those rods rigged and stay tuned to River Bay Outfitters for the latest updates!

John at J&J Sports in Patchogue said the local lakes are giving customers steady action. Most fishing freshwater are using live shiners. This is such a productive method; some anglers have been coming back the same day for more bait. Those that are going with nightcrawlers are finding a lot of action with the bluegills and yellow perch. West Lake and Great Patchogue Lake (AKA-Patchogue Mill Pond) are places to try.

At the Montauk Anglers Club, I heard from resident sharpie Chris Albronda who reported it was a week of game changing weather. Chris was able to get a few casts in through the week, and the fish were fired up. Every cast was either a smallmouth bass or a largemouth bass. This weather is significant because it changes the chemistry of the water, the temperature, and the feeding habits of the predatory fish. You can expect some very epic fishing this week.

Chasing Tails Bait & Tackle in Oakdale, Billy reported in the lakes, anglers will see the stocked trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, pickerel and all sorts of panfish. Paddletail swimbaits, jerkbaits, and spinnerbaits for the bass, walleye, and picks. Trout are crushing Kastmasters and inline spinners, and dough baits and worms are always a good choice, too. Panfish are going to be all over that same setup