Winter fishing at Hempstead Lake State Park offers a unique blend of quietness and great angling opportunities for anglers. The park’s three freshwater bodies – Hempstead Lake, McDonald Pond, and South Pond provide a variety of fishing opportunities, even in the colder months. Each location is home to species that remain active in winter, including trout, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, carp, and sunfish. The abundance of fish, combined with the winter setting, makes the park a prime destination for dedicated anglers looking to wet a line during the cold months.
For trout fishing, winter is an especially rewarding time. Stocked in the fall by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, rainbow and brown trout thrive in the cold waters, offering a consistent target for anglers. Trout are opportunistic feeders in winter, and live baits such as waxworms, mealworms, and nightcrawlers are highly effective. Anglers using artificial lures should opt for small inline spinners, spoons, or soft plastics in bright colors like silver, gold, or chartreuse. Slow and steady retrieves are key, as trout tend to be less aggressive in the colder months. Fishing near outflows or areas with higher oxygen levels often yields the best results.
Chain pickerel are another exciting target at Hempstead Lake during winter. These aggressive predators remain active even in cold water, making them a reliable choice for anglers seeking a fight. Live minnows fished under a slip bobber are the most effective bait, though artificial lures like soft plastic jerkbaits and spinnerbaits can also draw strikes. Pickerel tend to ambush prey in shallow, weedy areas or near submerged structures, so focusing on these spots can increase your chances of success.
Panfish, including yellow perch and bluegill, offer consistent action during the winter season. These smaller species are often found schooling near submerged structures or along drop-offs. Tiny jigs tipped with live bait, such as waxworms or spikes, are particularly effective. A slow and steady jigging motion often entices bites in cold water. For anglers using light or ultralight tackle, the fight of a panfish can be surprisingly thrilling, especially when using 2 to 4-pound test line for sensitivity and a natural presentation.
While largemouth bass are less active in winter, they can still be caught with the right techniques. Bass tend to move to deeper water where temperatures are more stable, often near submerged structures or drop-offs. Jigs tipped with soft plastics or slow-moving crankbaits are effective at enticing sluggish fish. Patience is crucial, as bass bites are less frequent in the colder months. A slow presentation, such as dragging a jig across the bottom, can make all the difference.
Carp fishing at Hempstead Lake is another rewarding winter challenge. These large fish are less aggressive feeders in cold water but can still be coaxed into biting with the right approach. Sweet corn, bread, and flavored boilies are excellent bait choices. Simple rigs, such as hair rigs or bottom rigs, work best. Chumming lightly with corn or pellets can attract carp to your area. Although carp fishing requires patience, the reward of landing a large specimen is well worth the effort.
Winter fishing at Hempstead Lake is all about timing and preparation. Fish are often more active during the warmest part of the day, typically between late morning and early afternoon. Additionally, stable weather patterns tend to produce better results, as sudden changes in barometric pressure can reduce fish activity. Anglers should focus on deeper water or areas with submerged structures, as these spots provide warmth and shelter for fish. Using fluorocarbon line, which is less visible in the clear winter water, can also improve your success rate.
Fishing in winter requires proper gear and techniques to combat the challenges of cold weather. Light tackle setups are ideal, as they allow for greater sensitivity, helping anglers detect subtle bites. Smaller hooks and lures are often more effective, as fish tend to feed less aggressively during the winter. Dressing warmly in layers, including insulated gloves and waterproof boots, ensures comfort during extended periods outdoors.
Hempstead Lake State Park’s peaceful atmosphere and diverse fishery make it an excellent winter destination for anglers. Whether you’re chasing trout with spinners, jigging for perch, or enticing a pickerel with live bait, the park offers endless opportunities to test your skills and enjoy the beauty of Long Island’s winter hot spots. With the right approach and a bit of persistence, you’ll not only land fish but learn sometime new during a rather quite time of the year when it comes to fishing.
