Summer is in full swing, and so are the outdoor activities. With dozens of inland lakes and over 520 miles of shoreline, New York City has some prime fishing locations. So whether you're a veteran angler or just starting out, here is some must-know info for fishing in NYC.
I’m Ready! Where Do I Go?
For the veteran angler who's ready to cast their bait and get to fishing, the only question you may have is, “Where is the fishing near me?” Here are five popular fishing locations throughout NYC.
Step 1: Get Your Gear
With freshwater and saltwater fishing in NYC, anglers have several different fish and fishing situations to choose from. If you're at a lake fishing for freshwater cod, you'd be using a heavy-duty rod with a line that can handle about 50 pounds. If you're on a deep-sea charter boat fishing for, say, a shark, your deep sea rod will be holstered to the boat, you'd be wearing a back harness, and your line would be rated to handle around 200 pounds. Capitol Fishing Tackle Company is located just two blocks away from the Empire State building, providing gear and information for NYC anglers since 1897.
Step 2: Get a Fishing License
A NY fishing license covers all freshwater fish. Saltwater fishing doesn't require a fishing license but will require you to register if you plan on angling in specific locations. All the information you need on how and where to purchase a NY fishing license can be found here.
Step 3: Pick Your Spot
With so many locations and species of fish, and gear requirements, it can be overwhelming. Luckily, there are several resources that can help:
- Fishing Booker is one of the world's largest online fishing services. From here, you can plan your fishing trip/charter as well as get local info on where the fish are jumping from The Brooklyn Fishing report.
- Northeast Angling gives you tips, techniques, and gear requirements for all the saltwater species of fish you’ll encounter off the coast of NYC.
- NYC Parks gives you all the information you’ll need for fishing the lakes, rivers, and Piers of the Big Apple.
Step 4: Have Fun!
You've got your licenses, gear, info, and you're ready to go! Just remember: Whether you catch the world's biggest bass or get nothing but a nibble, fishing is all about the joy of relaxing and communing with nature, even in a concrete jungle.
Fishing Gear Storage
you've called it a day, don't forget to clean your tackle before returning it to your storage unit. A self storage unit at CitiWide Self Storage is ideal for storing your angling equipment when not in use. In addition, self storage units keep your possessions secure and your home clutter-free.
For more great ideas for seasonal adventures and organization in the Big Apple, be sure to check out our other blog posts.