Blydenburgh Lake: Smithtown

Also known as Stump, New Mill or Weld’s Pond, this lake is located within Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown. Starting at 3 all the way to 8 feet deep, the lake is a hotspot for bluegill, pumpkinseed and yellow perch. A Suffolk County Green Key is needed to access the park. Access to this lake can also be found via many dirt footpaths located around the perimeter of the lake.

 

Lake Ronkonkoma: Islip

Grab your fishing poles and head over to the largest of Long Island’s freshwater lakes. This lake is part of Lake Ronkonkoma County Park and was actually formed by ancient glaciers. The site is always open for boat launching and fishing, but also requires a Suffolk County Green Key. There is a 100-foot fishing pier located in the park at the north-end of the lake ideal for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass.

 

Camman’s Pond: Merrick 

This small fishing site is located within a well-maintained, 8-acre suburban park. Boats are prohibited, but the almost 2,900 foot shoreline can be accessed by taking Merrick Road to Lindenmere Drive, going south. This pond is home to two species, the uncommon American eel and white perch.

 

Bellows Pond: Hampton Bays

One of several ponds in Sears Bellows County Park, Bellows Pond is located near the entrance of the park on Bellows Pond Road. This pond is surrounded by campgrounds, public restrooms and a playground for children. It’s the perfect destination for a family fishing trip to teach the kids how to catch largemouth bass, chain pickerel and bluegill. A Suffolk County Green Key is required and rowboat rentals are also available.

 

Fire Island Reef: Atlantic Ocean

This fishing spot is just two miles south of the Fire Island Lighthouse, right off the Fire Island Inlet. It’s home to a wide range of fish including flounder (fluke), striped bass and porgies. Although catching a fish isn’t guaranteed, this spot rarely lets down it’s fishers. At just under 750 acres, there’s plenty of room for boaters to explore.

 

Robert Moses State Park: Babylon

Try surf fishing for fluke or bluefish, or go crabbing off of the long piers in front of the park’s office. This beach overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is the perfect spot for a family day of fun, including beach shops, a golf course and a nature walk that leads directly to the Fire Island Lighthouse. Click to get your permit.

 

Hempstead Town Reef: Atlantic Ocean

Enjoy the salty breeze and the ocean’s motion as you wait for a fish to grab your bait. This reef is located three miles south of Jones Beach State Park and home to various fish and crab species. Take in the warm breeze and let your line down 70 feet—maybe you’ll even catch a spiny dogfish. They’re similar to sand sharks, posing more of a challenge than your typical sea bass.

 

Kismet Reef: Great South Bay

Just north of South Beach, this reef is the perfect spot for fishing on a private boat with family as it doesn’t get too crowded. And at 25 feet deep, it will not disappoint with schools of fluke, striped bass, black sea bass and blue fish.

 

Fishing Line Reef: Atlantic Ocean

This reef sits on the old (1959) McAllister Grounds, southwest of Jones Inlet and 2.8 miles south of Long Beach. It’s home to fluke, black sea bass and blackfish. Although the waves might be large on a heavy boat traffic day, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the breathtaking sunsets.

 

Fresh Water Fishing: Some spots require a permit and registration. Click to get your permit. Click to check freshwater regulations.