The Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley are known for some of the most incredible trout fishing in the Eastern United States and arguably the world. The hundreds of miles of streams and rivers, large reservoirs, ponds and lakes, provide stunning backdrops and many options depending on weather conditions. There are an array of public access points as well as guided tours on private waters. If you are looking to begin a new hobby or take it to the next level, there is fishing to be had in Ulster, Sullivan, Otsego and Delaware Counties. Explore some of these options with us!

Ashokan Reservoir courtesy of Wikipedia

Ulster County
Ashokan Reservoir
The Ashokan Reservoir is 8,315 acres of water with 44 miles of shoreline. This gorgeous body of water is available to the public with access that provides fishing along the shore and by row boat. All Row Boats need to be approved and licensed before pushing off into the reservoir, but once adrift you have the opportunity to catch record breaking fish.

Upper Esopus Creek
The Upper Esopus Creek extends 26 miles upstream of the Ashokan River with water temperatures that remain cool throughout the year. This portion of the creek supports one of the most productive wild trout populations in the Catskills and hosts multiple public access points. 

Sullivan County
Neversink River
Neversink River is recognized by many as the birthplace of fly fishing and provides some of the best conditions for trout fishing due to the consistently cold waters. There are many public access points to this river that provide a bit of hiking for the adventurous who want to partake in this centuries old tradition.

North Branch Callicoon Creek
Located in Callicoon, this public fishing access on the North Branch of Callicoon Creek allows anglers direct access to excellent cold water fishing. The stream is stocked annually, inviting a healthy and thriving trout population on the creek.

Neversink River courtesy of Wikipedia

Otsego County
Otsego Lake
Otsego Lake is an excellent place to fish for lake trout, perch, walleye and over 30 other species of fish. There is a state boat launch ramp located in the Village of Cooperstown and a hand launch location in Glimmerglass State Park on the North East side of the lake.

Basswood Pond
Basswood Pond is located in Basswood Pond State Forest and offers public fishing access with a fishing pier on the lake. The pond is stocked annually with rainbow trout and is an excellent spot for learning to fish. 

Delaware County
West Branch Angler Resort
West Branch Angler Resort offers intro to Fly Fishing courses, guided river trips, fishing updates, tips and tricks. Sign up to fish in their 300 acre camp or stop by for fishing tips on your way to your favorite fishing spot. The seasoned guides at West Branch can tell you all about fishing at the confluence of the West and East Branch of the Delaware River. 

Pepacton Reservoir
The 5,700+ acre Pepacton Reservoir is most popular for its brown trout and smallmouth bass with many trophy fish caught each year. A special permit is needed to fish in this reservoir and can be obtained from the city of New York Board of Water Supply.