Top Fishing Spots Around Carmel, NY

Whether you’re an early morning angler or just looking for a peaceful spot to spend the afternoon, the area around Carmel, NY, offers some amazing fishing locations. With beautiful reservoirs, scenic ponds, and well-maintained multiple-use areas, there’s no shortage of great places to drop a line and relax. Let’s explore some of the best fishing spots within 30 minutes of Carmel, NY, and why each one deserves a visit.

Pelton Pond

Located in Clarence Fahnestock State Park, just a short drive from Carmel, Pelton Pond is a picturesque and peaceful spot that’s perfect for anglers of all ages. This 10-acre pond is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a hot destination for anglers of all experience levels. Pelton Pond also has a handicap-accessible fishing platform, a hiking trail around the water, and picnic areas for when you’re ready to relax after a few good casts. No boats allowed here, but shore fishing is excellent and the surrounding views are stunning. It’s an ideal place to introduce kids to fishing or enjoy a quiet solo outing.

White Pond Multiple Use Area

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path fishing experience, the White Pond Multiple Use Area in Kent is a gem. The pond is nestled within hundreds of acres of forest and offers a serene environment for fishing from the shore or a small, non-motorized boat. Fish here include largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and yellow perch. The area is also great for hiking and wildlife spotting, so you can make a full nature day out of it.

Muscoot Reservoir

The Muscoot Reservoir is one of New York City’s water supply reservoirs, but it’s also a fantastic fishing destination just south of Carmel. It’s known for its excellent populations of brown trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. Fishing is permitted from the shoreline or from a boat that’s registered with the NYC DEP. You’ll need a free NYC DEP access permit, which is easy to obtain online. The scenery here is beautiful, with rolling hills and clear waters—perfect for a tranquil day of casting.

Titicus Reservoir

Just east of the Muscoot, the Titicus Reservoir is another NYC DEP water body known for its clean, deep waters and healthy fish populations. It’s a quiet sport where you’ll find brown trout, largemouth bass, and common carp. Like other NYC reservoirs, fishing is permitted with an access permit, and only DEP-registered boats are allowed. It’s a peaceful, meditative setting for fishing, with minimal noise and excellent water clarity.

Lake Gleneida

Lake Gleneida is smaller than some of the reservoirs but is known for its beautiful shoreline and central location. This lake offers great fishing for largemouth bass and white perch, and the surrounding village makes it easy to enjoy a post-fishing coffee or walk. You’ll need a DEP access permit here as well, and non-motorized boats are allowed only if registered. With easy access and beautiful views, Lake Gleneida is a favorite among local anglers who want a convenient and relaxing outing.

Lake Gilead

Lake Gilead is part of the NYC reservoir system and offers top-notch fishing for brown trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill. The lake is well-loved by boat anglers thanks to its depth and fish diversity, though shore access is limited. With the proper DEP permits and a little preparation, you can enjoy one of the more productive fishing experiences in the region.

Cast Your Line Close to Home

Living in Carmel, NY, means you’re surrounded by some of the Hudson Valley’s most beautiful and fish-friendly waters. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly pond, a quiet reservoir, or a stocked trout haven, there’s a local spot that fits the bill, all within 30 minutes or less. And when you’re loading up the rods and reels, make sure your vehicle can handle all your gear and adventure plans. At Meadowland of Carmel CDJR, we’re here to help you find the perfect ride for all your outdoor escapes—from lakeside mornings to weekend road trips. Stop by and let’s get you set up for your next great fishing day!

Image credit: Man fishing during daytime by Greyson Johnson, licensed by Unsplash License

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