New York City may be famous for skyscrapers and bustling streets, but it’s also a surprisingly rich destination for fishing enthusiasts. From serene rivers to piers with skyline views, NYC offers a variety of spots to enjoy a relaxing day of angling. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best NYC fishing spots in 2025, what species you can catch, regulations to follow, and tips to make the most of your fishing trip.
The Hudson River is one of the most iconic fishing spots in New York City, stretching along the west side of Manhattan and the Bronx. Its combination of accessibility, diverse fish species, and scenic views makes it a must-visit for anglers of all experience levels.
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Fish You Can Catch
The Hudson River is known for its variety of game fish, including:
Striped Bass: A top choice for experienced anglers; best caught during spring and fall migrations.
Bluefish: Aggressive fighters, perfect for sport fishing.
Flounder & Winter Flounder: Ideal for those who enjoy bottom fishing.
Catfish & Carp: Often found closer to the Bronx, especially in slower-moving sections of the river.
Best Fishing Spots Along the Hudson
Pier 25 (Tribeca, Manhattan): Offers wide spaces, benches, and convenient access. Ideal for families and casual anglers.
Pier 66 Maritime (Chelsea, Manhattan): Popular for both daytime and nighttime fishing; known for striped bass.
Inwood Hill Park (Upper Manhattan): Provides a quieter, scenic environment with natural surroundings.
Riverdale Park (Bronx): Offers less crowded areas and a good chance to catch catfish and carp.
Tips for Fishing the Hudson
Timing Matters: Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times, especially during tidal changes.
Tackle & Bait: Medium-heavy rods work well. Live bait like bunker or squid is highly effective for striped bass.
Permits & Regulations: Ensure you have a valid New York State fishing license.
Safety First: Some piers can get slippery; wear proper shoes and keep an eye on tides.
Not only does the Hudson provide great fishing, but it also offers stunning cityscape views, making it a unique urban fishing experience. The combination of accessible piers, diverse fish, and scenic backdrops gives both locals and visitors an unforgettable angling adventure.
2. East River (Manhattan & Brooklyn)
The East River is a tidal strait that flows between Manhattan and Brooklyn, connecting Long Island Sound to Upper New York Bay. Despite being in the heart of the city, it offers some of the best urban fishing opportunities in New York City. Its strong currents and abundant fish make it a favorite among both casual anglers and seasoned fishermen.
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Fish You Can Catch
The East River is home to a variety of species, including:
Striped Bass: A prized catch, especially during their seasonal migrations in spring and fall.
Bluefish: Known for their fighting spirit, making them popular among sport fishers.
Blackfish (Tautog): Found near rocky areas and piers, excellent for bottom fishing.
Flounder: Often caught using bottom rigs along the riverbed.
Top Fishing Spots Along the East River
Gantry Plaza State Park (Queens): Offers stunning skyline views of Manhattan and long piers for casting. It’s especially great for families and beginner anglers.
East River State Park / Marsha P. Johnson State Park (Brooklyn): Provides ample space for fishing, picnic areas, and scenic waterfront views.
FDR Drive Piers (Manhattan): Several piers along the east side of Manhattan allow easy access to deep-water fishing.
Tips for Fishing the East River
Tide Awareness: Currents in the East River are strong. Fish are more active during tidal changes, so check tide charts before heading out.
Gear Recommendations: Medium to heavy tackle works best to handle strong currents and larger fish. Wire leaders are helpful for bluefish and striped bass.
Bait & Lures: Live bait like bunker, squid, or clams works well. For artificial lures, consider soft plastics and bucktail jigs.
Permits & Regulations: A New York State fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older.
Safety Precautions: Piers can be slippery, and currents are strong. Always stay alert and keep children under supervision.
Fishing the East River combines the excitement of urban angling with breathtaking city views. Whether you’re targeting striped bass or blackfish, the river’s mix of tidal action, diverse fish species, and accessible piers makes it an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists.
3. Newtown Creek (Brooklyn & Queens)
Newtown Creek may not be as famous as the Hudson or East River, but it’s a hidden gem for anglers looking for a quieter, less crowded fishing experience. Straddling the border of Brooklyn and Queens, this industrial waterway offers surprising opportunities for both casual and serious fishers.
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Fish You Can Catch
Newtown Creek is home to a variety of species, including:
Striped Bass: Often found during migration seasons in spring and fall.
White Perch: A common catch, especially near docks and piers.
Catfish: Thrives in slower-moving sections of the creek.
Eels & Smallmouth Bass: Occasionally caught by adventurous anglers with specialized gear.
Top Fishing Spots Along Newtown Creek
Dutch Kills / Maspeth Area (Queens): Accessible spots near residential areas with calm water ideal for beginners.
Greenpoint Waterfront (Brooklyn): Offers scenic piers and excellent access to deeper water where striped bass are often found.
Industrial Piers: Several unused piers along the creek provide secret spots for locals to fish.
Tips for Fishing Newtown Creek
Tide Timing: Fishing is more productive during high tide when fish move closer to piers and shoreline structures.
Gear & Bait: Medium tackle works well. Live bait like worms, clams, or small baitfish is effective for perch and catfish.
Watch for Currents & Debris: The creek has areas of strong current and floating debris, so be cautious with line and hooks.
Licenses & Regulations: A valid New York State fishing license is required.
Newtown Creek offers a unique blend of urban exploration and fishing. While it’s less scenic than other NYC waterways, its quieter environment and secretive fishing spots make it ideal for those seeking solitude or a new challenge. It’s also a great place to experiment with different fishing techniques and target species that are less common in busier rivers.
4. Sheepshead Bay (Brooklyn)
Sheepshead Bay is one of Brooklyn’s most popular saltwater fishing destinations, known for its relaxed vibe, scenic waterfront, and diverse fish population. It’s ideal for families, casual anglers, and those looking to combine fishing with a day out by the water.
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Fish You Can Catch
Sheepshead Bay offers a variety of saltwater species, including:
Fluke (Summer Flounder): A prized catch during summer months.
Blackfish (Tautog): Found near rocky piers and docks; excellent for bottom fishing.
Porgy (Scup): Small but abundant, perfect for beginners.
Striped Bass: Often caught during spring and fall migrations.
Top Fishing Spots in Sheepshead Bay
Sheepshead Bay Piers: Public piers offer easy access for casting and are family-friendly.
Dockside Restaurants & Marinas: Some private docks allow fishing with permission, providing deeper water access.
Boat Rentals: Small boat rentals give anglers the chance to reach prime fishing spots further out in the bay.
Tips for Fishing Sheepshead Bay
Bait & Lures: Live clams, squid, and worms are effective for bottom feeders like fluke and blackfish. For striped bass, try live bunker or artificial lures.
Tackle Recommendations: Medium tackle is sufficient for most species; heavier gear may be needed for larger striped bass.
Timing: Summer is peak season for fluke, while spring and fall are best for striped bass and bluefish.
Safety & Regulations: Always follow New York State fishing regulations. A valid fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older.
Sheepshead Bay combines convenience, accessibility, and variety, making it perfect for anglers of all levels. Its calm waters and family-friendly environment make it a great spot for beginners, while experienced fishers can still find a challenge targeting striped bass and blackfish.
5. Staten Island Waterfront
Staten Island may be the city’s quieter borough, but its waterfronts offer some of the best fishing opportunities in New York City. From piers to park areas, Staten Island provides both freshwater and saltwater fishing options, making it ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
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Fish You Can Catch
The borough’s waters host a variety of species:
Bluefish: A popular target in spring and summer months.
Flounder: Found along sandy bottoms near piers.
Striped Bass: Often caught during seasonal migrations.
Weakfish & Carp: Freshwater anglers can find these in rivers and lakes.
Top Fishing Spots on Staten Island
Clove Lakes Park: Offers freshwater fishing with species like carp and bass; family-friendly with picnic areas.
Conference House Park: Located at the southern tip, this spot is excellent for saltwater fishing and has stunning views of the harbor.
Staten Island Greenbelt & Waterfront Piers: Provides quiet, accessible areas for casual fishing and small gatherings.
Tips for Fishing Staten Island
Tide Awareness: Saltwater fishing is more productive during incoming and outgoing tides.
Gear & Bait: Medium tackle works for most species. Live bait such as clams, worms, or small fish is effective.
Licenses & Regulations: Anglers 16 and older need a New York State fishing license.Â
Safety Precautions: Some piers are less maintained; watch for slippery surfaces and strong currents near the shoreline.
Staten Island combines peaceful surroundings with productive fishing spots, making it ideal for anglers who want to escape the crowded piers of Manhattan or Brooklyn. Its mix of freshwater and saltwater fishing options ensures variety and adventure, whether you’re casting from a pier or a small boat.
6. Prospect Park Lake (Brooklyn)
Prospect Park Lake is a serene freshwater fishing destination located in the heart of Brooklyn. Unlike the bustling piers along the rivers, this lake offers a quiet, family-friendly environment ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers seeking freshwater species.
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Fish You Can Catch
Prospect Park Lake is stocked with a variety of freshwater species, including:
Largemouth Bass: A favorite for sport fishing enthusiasts.
Bluegill & Pumpkinseed: Small, abundant fish perfect for beginners or children.
Carp: Often found near the shoreline, providing a fun challenge for anglers.
Catfish: Common in deeper areas of the lake.
Top Fishing Spots Around the Lake
West and East Shores: Accessible paths with benches and open spaces for casting.
Near the Waterfall Area: A quieter spot where fish often gather, ideal for morning or late afternoon fishing.
Long Meadow Section: Offers scenic surroundings and less crowded fishing areas.
Tips for Fishing Prospect Park Lake
Catch-and-Release Encouraged: The lake promotes sustainable fishing, so practicing catch-and-release helps maintain fish populations.
Gear & Bait: Light to medium tackle works best. Worms, crickets, or small artificial lures are effective for most species.
Timing: Early morning or late afternoon yields the best results, especially during warmer months.
Licenses & Regulations: A New York State freshwater fishing license is required for anglers 16 years and older.
Prospect Park Lake provides a peaceful urban fishing experience, offering scenic views and the chance to catch a variety of freshwater species without leaving Brooklyn. It’s perfect for families, beginners, or anyone looking to enjoy a quiet day of angling within the city.
7. Pelham Bay Park (Bronx)
Pelham Bay Park, the largest park in New York City, offers a diverse fishing experience in the Bronx. With its combination of freshwater lakes, tidal creeks, and coastal access to Long Island Sound, anglers can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing in a single location.
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Fish You Can Catch
Pelham Bay Park hosts a wide range of species, including:
Striped Bass: Popular during spring and fall migrations along the coastal areas.
Bluefish: Aggressive fighters, ideal for sport fishing.
Carp & Perch: Found in freshwater sections like the park’s ponds and lagoons.
Flounder & Weakfish: Often caught in tidal creeks and shoreline areas.
Top Fishing Spots in Pelham Bay Park
Pelham Bay Waterfront / Shoreline: Excellent for striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.
Tidal Creeks & Lagoon Areas: Great for freshwater species like carp, perch, and catfish.
Split Rock Pier: Less crowded, providing a peaceful spot with deeper water access for larger saltwater fish.
Tips for Fishing Pelham Bay Park
Tide & Timing: Fish are most active during tidal changes. Early mornings and evenings are ideal.
Gear & Bait: Medium tackle works for most species. Live bait such as bunker, clams, or worms is effective. For striped bass and bluefish, consider heavier tackle and wire leaders.
Licenses & Regulations: Anglers 16 and older need a valid New York State fishing license. Always follow DEC rules for catch limits and protected species.
Safety & Comfort: Wear non-slip shoes along piers and shorelines. Bring sunscreen and water, especially in summer months.
Pelham Bay Park is a versatile fishing destination, offering the chance to catch both freshwater and saltwater species in one location. Its expansive space, natural scenery, and variety of habitats make it ideal for families, beginners, and experienced anglers seeking a diverse urban fishing experience.
Fishing Regulations & Tips
Licenses: Anglers 16 years and older need a fishing license. Purchase it here.
Catch Limits: Check DEC rules for daily limits on species like striped bass and flounder.
Safety: Always wear life jackets if fishing from a boat and be cautious of slippery piers.
Gear: For NYC piers, medium to heavy tackle works best. For freshwater lakes, lighter gear is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Fishing in NYC is a rewarding experience, blending nature with the city’s unique energy. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a quiet park lake or an experienced angler chasing striped bass in the Hudson River, the city offers countless opportunities to cast your line.
Remember to respect local regulations, practice catch-and-release when appropriate, and enjoy the vibrant urban landscape while fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need a fishing license in NYC?
Yes, residents and visitors 16 years or older need a New York State fishing license.
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Q2: Can I fish from any NYC pier?
Most public piers allow fishing, but check for specific local signs and regulations.
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Q3: What’s the best time to fish in NYC?
Early morning or late evening, especially during spring and summer months.
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Q4: Are there guided fishing tours in NYC?
Yes! Companies like NYC Fishing Charter provide guided trips for all skill levels.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
