What You'll Find at Rondout Reservoir

Rondout Reservoir is a 6,200-acre impoundment in Ulster County that holds largemouth bass, channel catfish, common carp, and sunfish. The water sits in the Hudson Valley foothills between the towns of Lackawack and Grahamsville, about 90 minutes northwest of New York City. The reservoir is managed by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection as part of the city's water supply system, which means access is restricted to designated areas and you must follow specific rules.

The lake's appeal lies in its combination of productive shallow bays and deeper channel structure. Spring and fall bring the most consistent bass fishing, though catfish bite year-round in deeper holes. The shoreline is heavily forested, and the water quality is excellent — the reservoir feeds directly into the city's drinking water system. This also means no gas motors are allowed; electric trolling motors and paddle power only.

Key Takeaways

  • Rondout Reservoir permits only electric motors and paddle-powered boats; gas engines are prohibited because the water supplies New York City.
  • You must obtain a free permit from the NYC Department of Environmental Protection before launching, and permits are issued only at designated access points.
  • Largemouth bass fishing peaks in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October), with summer and winter requiring deeper-water techniques.
  • The reservoir has two public boat launch areas: one at Lackawack on the northern end and one at Grahamsville on the southern end.
  • New York State fishing licenses are required, and the reservoir follows state-wide bass and catfish regulations with no special local restrictions.

Access Points and Boat Launch Details

Rondout Reservoir has two public launch sites managed by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection. The Lackawack Launch Area sits on the northern end of the reservoir and offers a paved ramp, parking for roughly 20 vehicles, and a small picnic area. This launch is the more developed of the two and sees heavier use on weekends. The Grahamsville Launch Area on the southern end has a gravel ramp, smaller parking lot, and less crowded conditions, making it a good choice if you prefer quieter water.

Both launches require you to stop at the gatehouse or contact the NYC DEP before launching. You will need to provide your name, vehicle information, and the number of people in your party. The gatehouse staff will issue a day-use permit at no cost. Hours vary seasonally; the reservoir typically opens to public fishing in spring and closes in late fall, though exact dates shift year to year. Call the Rondout Reservoir office at 845-647-7989 to confirm current access dates before making the drive.

Overnight camping is not permitted, and the launches close at dusk. Launching after hours or without a permit can result in fines. Plan to arrive early on weekends, as parking fills quickly during peak season.

Largemouth Bass Fishing by Season

Spring (April through May) is the most productive season for largemouth bass. Water temperatures climb from the low 50s to the mid-60s, and bass move into shallow bays and creek arms to spawn. Fish the backs of coves with soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures in early morning and late evening. The northern end near Lackawack has several productive creek mouths where bass congregate before spawning.

Summer (June through August) presents a different challenge. Bass retreat to deeper water and structure as surface temperatures exceed 75 degrees. Focus on the main channel and drop-offs where the lake bottom falls away sharply. Early morning and late evening remain your best windows; midday fishing is slow. Plastic worms rigged Texas-style and deep-diving crankbaits work better than shallow presentations.

Fall (September through October) rivals spring for consistent action. Cooling water temperatures push bass back into shallower feeding zones. Baitfish congregate in open water, and bass hunt aggressively. Throw topwater and medium-depth crankbaits along rocky points and weed edges. October can be exceptional if the weather stays mild.

Winter (November through March) is slow but possible for anglers willing to fish deep. Bass hold in the deepest holes of the main channel, 40 to 60 feet down. Jigging with live shiners or vertical presentations with soft plastics can produce, but the bite is sporadic and requires patience.

Catfish and Other Species

Channel catfish are abundant in Rondout Reservoir and bite consistently from late spring through fall. Fish the deeper holes and channel ledges with cut bait — mackerel, herring, or chicken liver work well. Catfish feed primarily at night and during low-light periods, so plan evening sessions if you want consistent action. A simple three-way rig with a sinker and 18-inch leader will hold bottom and present bait effectively.

Common carp inhabit the shallower bays and weed edges, particularly in spring and early summer. They are strong fighters and can reach 30 pounds or more. Corn, dough balls, and specialized carp baits will attract them. Carp fishing requires patience and a light touch; use a sensitive rod and watch for subtle takes.

Sunfish and bluegill are plentiful around downed trees, weed beds, and shallow structure. They provide good action for children and beginners and are best caught on small jigs, spinners, or live crickets and worms. Summer is peak season for panfish.

Regulations and Licensing

A valid New York State fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older. Licenses are available online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website, at sporting goods retailers, and at some town clerk offices. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license and is a practical choice if you fish only occasionally.

Rondout Reservoir follows statewide bass and catfish regulations. Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum length limit and a five-fish daily bag limit. Channel catfish have no minimum size and no daily bag limit. Sunfish and bluegill have no size limit and no bag limit. These regulations are current as of 2024, but the New York DEC updates them periodically, so check the current regulations before you fish.

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection enforces additional rules specific to the reservoir: no gas motors, no overnight camping, no swimming, and no wading. Violating these rules can result in fines and loss of access privileges.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Because gas motors are prohibited, bring an electric trolling motor or plan to paddle. If you own a kayak or canoe, Rondout is well-suited to paddle fishing — the water is calm in protected bays, and you can reach shallow structure that larger boats cannot. A battery-powered electric motor rated for your boat's weight will give you range and quiet operation.

The reservoir can be windy, especially in spring and fall. Bring a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person in the boat — it is required by law and essential for safety. The water is cold even in summer, so a PFD rated for immersion is wise. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot fish in shallow water.

Cell service is spotty around the reservoir, so do not rely on your phone for navigation. Bring a map or GPS unit. Weather can change quickly in the Hudson Valley foothills, so check the forecast before launching and bring a rain jacket. The nearest gas station and food services are in Grahamsville or Lackawack, so pack water and snacks.

Nearby Amenities and Lodging

Grahamsville and Lackawack are small towns with limited services. Grahamsville has a few diners and a general store but no dedicated fishing shops. For tackle and supplies, the nearest full-service sporting goods retailers are in Kingston, about 30 minutes south. Plan ahead and bring what you need.

Lodging options include small motels in Grahamsville and vacation rentals scattered throughout the area. The Catskill Mountains are nearby, so you can combine a fishing trip with hiking or other outdoor activities. State campgrounds in the region offer affordable overnight options if you want to extend your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Rondout Reservoir year-round?

No. The reservoir is open to public fishing from spring through fall, with exact dates varying by year. Call the Rondout Reservoir office at 845-647-7989 to confirm the current season before planning your trip. Winter access is typically closed.

Do I need a permit to launch my boat?

Yes. A free day-use permit is issued at the gatehouse when you arrive. You must stop and register before launching. Launching without a permit can result in fines.

What size electric motor can I use?

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection allows electric trolling motors with no stated horsepower limit, but your motor must be appropriate for your boat's size and weight. Paddle power and oars are always permitted. Gas motors of any size are prohibited.

Is there a better launch site for kayaks or canoes?

Both launches accommodate kayaks and canoes, though Grahamsville may be less crowded. Kayaks and canoes do not require a motor and can access shallow bays that larger boats cannot reach. You still need a day-use permit.

What is the best time to fish for largemouth bass?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are most productive. Water temperatures in these seasons push bass into shallow feeding zones. Summer and winter require deeper-water techniques and are slower overall.