What You'll Find at Long Pond

Long Pond sits in the Catskill region of upstate New York and holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish. The pond covers roughly 200 acres and reaches depths of 40 feet in places, making it a mixed fishery where you can spend a morning on topwater for bass or switch to deeper structure for catfish and sunfish depending on the season and what's biting.

The water is moderately clear to slightly stained depending on recent rainfall, and the shoreline mixes rocky outcrops with shallow weedy bays. Spring and early fall are the most productive times for bass, when the fish move into shallower water to feed. Summer fishing is possible but requires fishing early, late, or deeper during midday heat.

Access is from a public boat launch on the southern end of the pond. There is a small parking area and a concrete ramp suitable for small to medium boats. No gas motors are permitted on Long Pond — electric motors and paddle-powered craft only — which keeps the water quiet and the fishing pressure moderate.

Key Takeaways

  • Long Pond holds largemouth and smallmouth bass plus panfish, with the best fishing in spring and early fall when bass move shallow.
  • The public boat launch is on the southern shore with parking and a concrete ramp; electric motors and canoes are allowed, but gas motors are not.
  • You need a New York State fishing license and must follow current bass size and creel limits, which vary by season.
  • The pond reaches 40 feet deep in the center but has productive shallow bays along the western and northern shores where weeds hold fish.
  • Plan to fish early morning or late afternoon in summer; midday heat pushes bass deeper and makes topwater less reliable.

Seasons and What to Fish

Spring (April through May) is when Long Pond fishes best. Bass move from deep winter holes into the shallows to spawn and feed, and you can catch them on crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures in water 3 to 8 feet deep. The weedy bays on the western shore are especially productive during this window. Water temperature climbs from the low 50s to the mid-60s, signaling the start of the season.

Summer (June through August) requires a shift in tactics. Daytime temperatures push bass into deeper water and shade. Fish the early hours before sunrise and again after sunset when bass return to the shallows to feed. During the heat of midday, focus on deeper structure — drop-offs, rocky points, and the deeper channels between shallow bays — using slower presentations like Texas-rigged worms or small swimbaits.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong bite as water cools and bass feed heavily before winter. Bass return to shallower water, and you can repeat the spring patterns with topwater and shallow-running crankbaits. Panfish also bite well in fall, making it a good time to switch gears if bass fishing slows.

Winter (November through March) is slow. Bass are deep and lethargic, and most anglers do not fish Long Pond during this period. If you do venture out, focus on the deepest holes and use small, slow-moving baits or live shiners fished vertically.

Regulations and Licensing

You must carry a valid New York State fishing license to fish Long Pond. Licenses are sold online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website, at sporting goods stores, and at some bait shops near the pond. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting for a short trip.

Bass regulations in New York change periodically, so check the current DEC fishing guide before you go. Typically, largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum size limit with a daily creel limit of five fish, but smallmouth bass may have different rules depending on the water body. Panfish (bluegill, crappie, sunfish) usually have no size limit and a generous creel limit, making them a good option when bass are slow.

Long Pond is a no-gas-motor lake, so electric trolling motors and paddle power are your only options. This rule is strictly enforced and keeps the pond quieter and less crowded than many other regional fisheries.

Getting to Long Pond and What to Bring

Long Pond is located in the town of Shandaken in Ulster County, roughly 90 minutes northwest of New York City and 30 minutes south of Kingston. From the New York State Thruway (I-87), take Exit 19 toward Kingston, then follow Route 28 west into the Catskills. The boat launch is clearly marked on the south shore; GPS coordinates are approximately 42.0°N, 74.4°W if you want to enter them directly.

The parking area holds about 15 to 20 vehicles and fills on weekends during peak season. Arrive early if you are fishing on a Saturday or Sunday in spring or fall. There are no facilities at the launch — no restrooms, no concessions — so bring water and snacks for the day.

Bring a small to medium boat, canoe, or kayak. The pond is large enough to explore multiple areas in a day, and having a boat lets you reach the deeper structure and weedy bays where fish hold. If you do not own a boat, rental options are available in nearby towns like Phoenicia and Big Indian, though you should call ahead to reserve.

Where Fish Hold and How to Fish Them

The western and northern shores of Long Pond have shallow weedy bays that hold bass year-round. In spring and fall, fish these areas with topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastics in the 3- to 8-foot range. Cast parallel to the weed line and work your lure slowly; bass often strike on the pause.

The southern and eastern shores are rockier and drop off more steeply. These areas hold smallmouth bass and are productive in summer when you fish deeper. Use drop-shot rigs, small swimbaits, or live shiners fished 15 to 25 feet deep along the rocky points and drop-offs.

The center of the pond reaches 40 feet and is mostly open water with little structure. This area is less productive for most anglers, but it can hold bass during the heat of summer if you fish vertically with live bait or jigging spoons. Panfish (bluegill and crappie) scatter throughout the pond but concentrate in the shallower bays and around any submerged wood or brush.

Nearby Lodging and Services

The closest towns with lodging and food are Phoenicia and Big Indian, both about 15 minutes from the boat launch. Phoenicia has several small inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and a few restaurants. Big Indian is smaller but has a general store and a couple of local spots. If you want more options, Kingston is 30 minutes away and has chain hotels, restaurants, and a larger grocery store.

Bait and tackle shops are limited in the immediate area. The best option is to bring your own tackle or stop at a shop in Kingston before heading to the pond. Live shiners and crawfish are sometimes available at local bait shops, but availability varies, so call ahead if you plan to use live bait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Long Pond from shore?

Shore fishing is possible along parts of the southern and western shores where there is public access, but a boat gives you much better access to the productive areas. Most anglers use boats or kayaks to reach the weedy bays and deeper structure where fish hold.

What is the best time of day to fish Long Pond?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon through sunset are most productive. In summer, these windows are essential because midday heat pushes bass deep. Spring and fall allow you to fish throughout the day, but early and late hours are still your best bet.

Are there catfish in Long Pond?

Yes, channel catfish are present and can be caught on cut bait or chicken liver fished on the bottom in deeper areas, especially at night. They are not the main draw, but they provide an option if bass fishing is slow and you want to try something different.

Do I need a boat to fish Long Pond?

A boat or kayak is not strictly required, but it is strongly recommended. Shore access is limited, and most of the productive water is beyond easy casting distance from land. A canoe or kayak is a budget-friendly option if you do not own a motorized boat.

What should I do if I catch a fish that does not meet the size limit?

Release it immediately by gently removing the hook and returning it to the water. Handle the fish as little as possible to reduce injury. Keep a current copy of the New York DEC fishing guide so you know the size and creel limits before you start fishing.