Fishing Fun: 8 New York State Parks to Reel in the Big One

From the Canadian border to Long Island Sound and Lake Ontario, the Genesee River and the Allegheny River, New York State boasts an abundance of state parks that are perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts.

Check out this list of New York’s best state parks to visit whether you’re traveling from home, a marina or a private boat lift for rent.

1. Letchworth State Park

Located in western New York, along the Genesee River, Letchworth State Park    The park is often called the Grand Canyon of the East. You’ll find scenic fishing spots along the riverway’s gorges and waterfalls. Anglers can enjoy fishing for trout, bass and other species, while kayakers and canoeists explore nature and scenery.


Though motorized boating isn't permitted, the peaceful environment makes it perfect for paddle sports. Letchworth's stunning waterfalls, lush forests and abundant wildlife create an idyllic backdrop, ensuring a memorable outdoor adventure for nature enthusiasts. 

• Water: Freshwater 
• Key Species: Walleye, trout, smallmouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, kayak, canoe

2. Green Lakes State Park

At Green Lakes State Park, in Fayetteville near Syracuse, features two glacially formed lakes, Green Lake and Round Lake. The lakes are famous for their unique turquoise color and clear waters, making for a picturesque fishing experience. 


Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and more. Green Lake, the larger of the two, is particularly popular for fishing from the shore or small boats. Motorized vessels are not allowed.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Largemouth bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed sunfish
• Fishing Type: Small non-motorized boats, kayaks, shore

3. Allegany State Park

Quaker Lake and Red House Lake are popular fishing spots at Allegany State Park in southwestern New York. At 65,000 acres, it’s the largest state park in New York. The park’s lakes and streams are home to largemouth bass, muskellunge and panfish. 

Red House Lake only allows non-motorized watercraft. Quaker Lake allows electric trolling motors. The park offers paddleboat, kayak and canoe rentals if you don’t want to trailer yours from a marina or private boat slip for rent. 

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Muskellunge, panfish, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Harriman State Park

Just north of New York City, Harriman State Park offers several lakes and ponds filled with bass, perch and trout. Lake Welch and Lake Tiorati are favorite fishing destinations. They feature scenic surroundings and plenty of space for anglers to cast a line. 

This is another New York state park that doesn’t allow motorized boats. However, you’re welcome to paddle about in canoes and kayaks, and rentals are available. 

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Bass, trout, perch
• Fishing Type: Canoe, shore, kayak

5. Taughannock Falls State Park

Taughannock Falls State Park is near Ithaca on Cayuga Lake. It’s an excellent destination for fishing for lake trout, salmon and bass. The park offers shoreline fishing, boat access and stunning views of Taughannock Falls. There's a boat ramp in the event that you’re trailering your boat from a private boat dock rental or marina. 

• Water: Freshwater 
• Key Species: Bass, trout, salmon, northern pike
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat

6. Lake George Battlefield Park

Situated in the Adirondacks, Lake George Battlefield Park is popular for fishing for smallmouth bass, rainbow trout and northern pike in the 32-mile expanse of Lake George. Pristine waters and abundant wildlife make this a prime spot for angling and relaxation. You’ll also find hiking trails, picnic areas and signs about the area’s significance during the French and Indian War. 

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, northern pike, rainbow trout
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat 

7. Robert Moses State Park

Robert Moses State Park, situated along the western end of Fire Island in Long Island, offers ocean and bay (Great South Bay) access for boaters and anglers. The park itself doesn’t have a boat launch, but there are several marinas in the Long Island area where you can launch a boat.

With proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and the shallower waters of the bay, anglers can choose between offshore and inshore fishing, kayaking, nature watching and sightseeing.   

• Water: Saltwater 
• Key Species: Striped bass, bluefish, flounder, snapper
• Fishing Type: Boat, surf, pier, kayak, canoe

8. Hamlin Beach State Park

Sitting along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, Hamlin Beach State Park offers 1,200 acres of wildlife and natural attractions to explore from marinas, docks and private boat lifts for rent. Anglers can cast for trout, salmon and bass. The park has convenient access to fishing piers and boat launches.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Trout, salmon, bass, pike
• Fishing Type: Kayak, canoe, sailboat, motorboat