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Fishing FAQs

Most City-owned reservoirs offer excellent fishing opportunities for both warm-water species such as smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as cold-water species such as trout. For general information, please visit Fishing. If you are interested in angling from a boat, visit Boating for Anglers.

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Where are good places to go fishing?

Good fishing opportunities are available on many of the City-owned reservoirs. Further information about fishing in New York State is available from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) or by phone for DEC Region 3 at (845) 256-3000 and DEC Region 4 at (518) 357-2234.

Can I ice fish on City lands?

Ice fishing is allowed on ponds at hiking or fishing areas and at the following reservoirs and controlled lakes only:

  • Amawalk
  • Bog Brook
  • Boyds Corner
  • Cross River
  • Diverting
  • East Branch
  • Muscoot
  • Titicus
  • West Branch
  • Croton Falls
  • Middle Branch
  • Lake Gilead
  • Lake Gleneida

Sometimes unsafe ice conditions require DEP to close certain ice fishing areas. Please pay attention to any posted notices regarding any ice fishing closures. A minimum of three to four inches of solid ice is the general rule for safety. Ice thickness, however, is not uniform on any body of water, including New York City Reservoirs. Please visit the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website for guidance on ice fishing and ice fishing safety. Any reservoirs not listed above are closed to ice fishing due to changing water levels and public safety concerns.

Where can I get maps of the reservoirs?

You can view angler maps for all New York City Reservoirs using our Interactive Recreation Map or by directly downloading our Reservoir Angler Maps.

Can I use a boat to fish on City Reservoirs?

Yes, fishing by boat is permitted in rowboats that have valid DEP Boat Tags. For more information, visit Boating for Anglers.

Are there any prohibitions on the use of wader?

No, not at this time. However, waders should be cleaned and inspected to ensure invasive species are not spread.