Pond fishing is often best immediately after the ice melts. The prime areas are those that warm earliest, including tributary mouths and near surface and shallow shoreline areas. Anglers can help DEC fisheries specialists by reporting any tagged trout taken. Complete details are important for such reports, including location of catch, species, length and tag number. Information derived from these angler reports helps aquatic biologists evaluate stocking and other management efforts to improve fishing for all.
Long Island lakes, ponds and streams typically provide excellent early season trout angling.
By the end of April, approximately 27,000 trout, including 1,900 two year old brown trout in the 12 to 15 inch range and 3,000 12-inch rainbow trout will have been stocked into Long Island lakes, ponds and streams. For premier early season fly fishing, the Carmans, Connetquot and Nissequogue rivers in Suffolk County are highly recommended. Tidal sections of these waters also provide excellent fishing opportunities and include trophy-size fish. For anglers who prefer to fish still waters, Laurel Lake, Upper Lake, Lower Lake, East Lake and West Lake are recommended in Suffolk County. In Nassau County, Upper Twin Pond, Oyster Bay Mill Pond and Massapequa Reservoir are good bets.