What You'll Find at Van Cleef Lake

Van Cleef Lake is a 47-acre pond in the Catskill Mountains of Ulster County, New York, roughly 15 miles northwest of Kingston. The lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and brown trout, making it a mixed warm-water and cool-water fishery. The shoreline is mostly wooded and undeveloped, and the lake sits at about 1,200 feet elevation in a valley setting that keeps it relatively sheltered.

The lake is open to public fishing year-round under New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulations. Access is limited to a small public boat launch on the eastern shore, which is the main entry point for most anglers. The launch has parking for roughly a dozen vehicles and a gravel ramp suitable for small to medium boats and canoes.

Van Cleef is not a destination lake for most anglers — it draws mainly local and regional fishers who know the water or live nearby. The fishing pressure is light compared to larger Catskill lakes, which means less competition but also less predictable patterns if you're new to the water.

Key Takeaways

  • Van Cleef Lake holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and brown trout, with bass being the most common catch.
  • The public boat launch on the eastern shore is the only legal access point; parking is limited and the ramp is gravel.
  • Fishing is open year-round, but winter ice-out typically occurs in late March or early April.
  • New York State fishing licenses and any required trout stamps are mandatory; check current regulations for size and bag limits before you fish.
  • The lake is small enough to fish thoroughly in a half-day, making it suitable for anglers with limited time or those new to the Catskills.

Seasons and When to Fish

Spring (April through May) is often the most productive time. As water temperatures rise after ice-out, bass move into shallower areas to feed, and trout become more active. The shoreline structure — fallen trees, rocky points, and weed beds — holds fish predictably during this period.

Summer (June through August) can be slow during midday heat, especially for trout. Early morning and evening sessions are more reliable. Bass will move deeper or seek shade near structure. Pickerel remain active throughout the day and are less temperature-sensitive than trout.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong window. Cooling water temperatures trigger feeding activity across all species. Bass and pickerel move back into shallower water, and trout become more aggressive. This is often considered the second-best season after spring.

Winter (November through March) is possible but challenging. The lake typically freezes solid by December. Ice fishing for trout and pickerel occurs, but you will need to check current ice conditions and DEC regulations on ice-fishing rules before heading out.

Species and What to Expect

Largemouth bass are the most abundant fish in Van Cleef. They range from 8 to 14 inches on average, with occasional fish pushing 16 to 18 inches. They respond well to topwater lures early and late in the day, and to soft plastics and crankbaits around structure. The lake's shallow bays and weed beds are prime bass habitat.

Smallmouth bass are present but less numerous than largemouths. They tend to hold on rocky points and deeper structure. They are more aggressive on live baitfish and small jigs than largemouths and often bite throughout the day.

Chain pickerel are underrated at Van Cleef and often overlooked by anglers targeting bass. They grow to 18 to 24 inches and strike aggressively at spinners, spoons, and small soft plastics. They are less selective than bass and provide reliable action, especially in fall and spring.

Brown trout are stocked periodically by the DEC and provide a cool-water option. They are most active in spring and fall and respond to small spinners, spoons, and live shiners. Trout numbers fluctuate depending on recent stocking, so check with the DEC regional office in New Paltz for current stocking schedules.

Access and Boat Launch Details

The public boat launch is located on the eastern shore of Van Cleef Lake, accessed via County Road 2 from the town of Shandaken. Parking is limited to roughly 10 to 12 spaces on a gravel lot. The ramp itself is gravel and slopes gradually into the water, suitable for canoes, kayaks, small aluminum boats, and modest recreational boats. Trailers are acceptable, but the lot can fill on weekends during peak season.

There is no boat rental on-site, no fuel dock, and no facilities beyond the parking area. The nearest services — gas, food, lodging — are in Shandaken or Kingston, both roughly 15 to 20 minutes away by car.

Shore fishing is technically possible but limited. The shoreline is mostly private property or steep and wooded, making wade access difficult. The boat launch is the practical entry point for most anglers.

Regulations and Licenses

New York State fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are available online through the DEC website, at sporting goods retailers, and at town clerk offices. A standard freshwater license covers most fishing, but trout fishing may require an additional trout stamp depending on the water and season — check the current DEC guide for Van Cleef specifically.

Size and bag limits vary by species and change annually. As of recent DEC guidance, largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum with a 5-fish daily limit, smallmouth bass have a 10-inch minimum with a 5-fish daily limit, and chain pickerel have no minimum size with a 10-fish daily limit. Trout limits depend on whether the lake is classified as a put-and-take or put-grow-and-take fishery in the current year — verify this with the DEC before fishing.

The lake is open to fishing year-round, but ice-fishing has specific rules regarding equipment and hours. Review the current DEC ice-fishing regulations before attempting winter fishing.

Tackle and Techniques

For bass, topwater plugs and poppers work well in early morning and evening, especially in spring and fall. Soft plastic worms and creature baits fished around submerged structure produce steady results throughout the day. Crankbaits in the 2- to 3-inch range cover water efficiently and often draw strikes from both largemouths and smallmouths.

Pickerel respond aggressively to spinners (sizes 2 to 4) and small spoons. They also hit soft plastics and will chase topwater lures. Pickerel fishing is often more straightforward than bass fishing — they commit to strikes and are less selective about presentation.

For trout, small spinners (sizes 0 to 2), spoons, and live shiners or minnows are standard. Fly fishing is possible but not the dominant method on this lake. Trout tend to hold in deeper water or near the inlet and outlet, so focus your effort there.

Light to medium tackle is appropriate for all species. A 6- to 7-foot spinning rod with 8- to 12-pound monofilament or braided line covers most situations. Avoid heavy gear — the lake is small and the fish are not large enough to require it.

Nearby Alternatives and Considerations

If Van Cleef is crowded or you want more variety, several other Catskill lakes are within 20 to 30 minutes. Ashokan Reservoir, to the south, is much larger and holds similar species plus walleye. Rondout Reservoir, to the east, is another option for bass and trout. Both have more developed access and facilities than Van Cleef.

Van Cleef's advantage is its small size and light pressure. You can fish the entire lake thoroughly in a half-day, and you are unlikely to encounter crowds. This makes it ideal for anglers with limited time or those new to the Catskills who want to learn a water quickly.

The surrounding area offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor recreation. The Catskill Forest Preserve has trails nearby, and several private campgrounds operate in Shandaken and surrounding towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Van Cleef Lake?

A boat is strongly recommended. Shore access is limited due to private property and steep terrain. Canoes and kayaks work well and can be launched from the public ramp. Small motorboats and rowboats are also suitable for this 47-acre lake.

What is the best time of year to fish Van Cleef?

Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) are most productive. Water temperatures are moderate, fish are actively feeding, and weather is generally pleasant. Summer can be slow during midday, and winter requires ice-fishing skills and equipment.

Are there trout in Van Cleef Lake?

Yes, brown trout are stocked periodically by the New York DEC. Stocking schedules vary year to year, so contact the DEC regional office in New Paltz to confirm whether trout were recently stocked before making a special trip for them.

How far is Van Cleef Lake from New York City?

Van Cleef is roughly 90 to 100 miles northwest of New York City, approximately a two-hour drive via the New York State Thruway and local roads. It is accessible as a day trip for anglers in the Hudson Valley and lower Catskills region.

Can I fish Van Cleef Lake in winter?

Yes, ice fishing is possible once the lake freezes solid, typically by December. You must follow current DEC ice-fishing regulations regarding equipment, hours, and species-specific rules. Check the DEC website or call the regional office before heading out to confirm ice conditions and any seasonal restrictions.