Whether you’re looking for a thrill or a place to kick back and relax, you’ll find a variety of great fishing spots around West Islip, New York. The next time you’re ready to drop a line and see what’s biting, make plans to check out a few of these popular fishing destinations in the area.
Heckscher State Park
Heckscher State Park is a 1,657-acre park that’s situated on the shores of the Great South Bay and approximately 11 miles east of West Islip. Although the park was once part of the 19th-century
“Surf Fishing at ASP” by MeganASP, used under CC BY 2.0
estates of J. Neal Plum and George C. Taylor, today it’s known as an outstanding destination for numerous outdoor activities, including fishing. If you’re interested in a fishing getaway, consider renting one of the park’s new waterfront cottages for spectacular views and easy access to the water.
Captree State Park
If you take a drive across the Robert Moses Causeway to Jones Beach Island, you’ll find the beautiful Captree State Park. This 340-acre park is a fishing haven and home to the largest public fishing fleet on Long Island. If you want to head out on the water to fish, you’ll find plenty of charter boat options that provide everything you’ll need for the day. If you prefer staying closer to land, the park also has two large fishing piers. Additionally, the park has a retail bait and tackle shop that offers a great selection of fishing gear.
Belmont Lake State Park
If you’d rather see what’s biting in a lake instead of the ocean, plan a trip to Belmont Lake State Park. Located just 4 miles north of West Islip, this serene 463-acre park is home to the 26-acre, spring-fed Belmont Lake. You can fish from the shoreline or launch a kayak or canoe from the boat dock to head out on the water. During the spring, trout fishing is a popular activity. In the summer, avid anglers often catch bass. Other fish you might hook include yellow perch, sunfish, and catfish.
Connetquot River State Park Preserve
Another excellent destination for some freshwater fishing is Connetquot River State Park Preserve. This 3,473-acre preserve is located about 12 miles east of West Islip. If you have the proper permits to fish on the Connetquot River, you have the opportunity to hook brown, brook, and rainbow trout within the park.
Gilgo State Park
Although it takes some work to get to Gilgo State Park, you’ll enjoy fantastic fishing conditions when you arrive. The 1,223-acre undeveloped park is located on a barrier beach along the south shore of Long Island and offers vast views of the Atlantic Ocean. Access to the park requires a permit and a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Once you’re there, you’ll discover abundant surf fishing opportunities. During the fall, striped bass is a popular catch. You also have a chance to reel in bluefish and a variety of other saltwater fish.
Whether you’re interested in saltwater or freshwater fishing, you know you’ll have a great experience when you check out these excellent fishing spots around West Islip.
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