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Fish in parks

Finding a spot to fish in a park that feels like a genuine escape rather than a crowded, noisy tourist trap.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Connetquot River State Park Preserve image 1
Connetquot River State Park Preserve image 2
Connetquot River State Park Preserve image 3
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Tall trees and open meadows create a lush, green forest that blocks out city noise. Trails stretch quietly through the preserve, inviting slow walks and reflection. Historical buildings and a unique trout hatchery add scenic and educational features to the peaceful, natural setting.

Quiet and scenic trails offer peaceful walks and varied lengths for different preferences. The park supports fly fishing and provides a calm escape from city life with rich history and natural beauty.

Fish hatchery features various types of trout and allows feeding the fish. The hatchery supports local parks by distributing the fish it raises. Fishing opportunities exist throughout the park.

People are saying

"I loved exploring the historical sites and beautiful nature here."

"It's a quiet place to slow down and reflect away from the city."

"The park's authentic nature and beauty made me forget everything."

Good to know

1

Bring bug spray and tick protection when visiting the park.

2

The park has signs warning about West Nile virus and tick issues.

3

Restrooms are available at the beginning of the trail and next to the hatchery.

02
Captree State Park image 1

State park offers peaceful waterfront views with live music at a dockside bar and active fishing piers. The atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxing to lively around the marina and restaurant area. Visitors enjoy sunsets over the bay and a mix of boating and picnic activities.

Scenic boardwalks and large piers offer great spots for fishing and boating. The park features kayak launches, a playground, and clean, peaceful waterfront views ideal for walking and nature watching.

Boating trips here focus on active fishing support with crew helping bait rods and untangle lines. The variety includes sea bass, porgie, and trigger fish, with captains skilled at locating fish.

People are saying

"I found the sunset here to be magical and peaceful."

"The crew really helped us catch fish and were so patient."

"I loved fishing from the docks at these parks."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $8 per car after 9am, so have cash ready.

2

Use the Empire Pass for free parking if you have it.

3

The park has fishing piers and party boats for excursions.

03
The Central Park Turtle Pond image 1

Turtle Pond offers peaceful charm and adorable views within a large urban park. The spot invites visitors to slow down and enjoy a unique natural setting amid city surroundings. It fits well into a park known for diverse trails and scenic highlights.

Many different trails wind through the park, offering options for all ages. Turtle Pond stands out as a peaceful and charming spot amid the beautiful walking areas.

Clear water hosts various fish swimming near a wooden viewing point. The pond offers close views of fish alongside turtles and ducks.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful, charming spot to slow down and enjoy something unique."

"This park is a peaceful and charming spot to slow down."

"You can see fish in the pond here."

Good to know

1

The park features many trails suitable for walking and biking.

2

Expect some areas to be closed for maintenance or restoration.

3

Check for any special events happening during your visit.

04
The Pond at Central Park image 1

Pond offers a peaceful nature haven with reflective waters and lush greenery surrounded by city skyscrapers. Wide, paved paths and charming bridges create a scenic spot for walking and relaxing. Wildlife like ducks, geese, and turtles add to the tranquil atmosphere amid urban bustle.

The Pond offers a peaceful spot with a natural look that supports wildlife and changes with the seasons. Paths around the pond and spacious lawns invite long walks and relaxing moments with views of nearby skyscrapers.

Fish swim visibly in the water, often seen alongside turtles and other wildlife. Sitting by The Pond offers clear views of these aquatic animals.

People are saying

"I found the park to be a beautiful lung of the city."

"The view of the skyscrapers against the park is really nice."

"I saw ducks, geese, turtles, and fish here."

Good to know

1

The Pond is near the 59th Street East Side entrance of Central Park.

2

The Pond offers great wildlife viewing opportunities, including ducks and turtles.

3

The Pond is close to Central Park Zoo for additional wildlife experiences.

05
Harlem Meer image 1
Nature preserve

Artificial lake surrounded by weeping willows and wildlife creates a picturesque retreat with benches and grassy spots for picnics. Calm waters host turtles, fish, and birds, attracting people for quiet fishing and peaceful strolls. Area remains less crowded than other parts of the park, offering a serene atmosphere even during ongoing renovations.

A man-made lake sits in the northeast corner, offering a serene escape with fewer crowds than other park areas. The spot invites walking, hanging out, and playing sports around its peaceful waters.

Different types of fish swim alongside cute turtles in the water. You can hear fish gurgling and see many ducks and geese sharing the lake.

People are saying

"I found this park to be a beautiful, tranquil escape."

"You can see so many fish and cute turtles swimming around."

"It's a lovely, tranquil spot to relax and watch the day go by."

Good to know

1

Harlem Meer is currently undergoing renovation, but remains a beautiful spot for relaxation.

2

Avoid touching the water or feeding wildlife due to toxic algae blooms.

3

The lake is popular for catch-and-release fishing; check local regulations.

06
Shirley Chisholm State Park image 1

State park with gravel trails and hills and flats offers stunning views of city skyline, water, and bridges. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, ideal for walking, biking, fishing, and relaxing without crowds. Amenities include free bike rentals and picnic areas with shaded tables.

Trails offer gravel biking and walking paths with views of the water and city skyline. The park has two large sections with quiet, peaceful areas and spots for fishing and cycling.

A pier extends into the water for fishing with views of huge schools of fish swimming nearby. Renting a bike or canoe adds options for a relaxing scenic row alongside fishing.

People are saying

"The scenery here offers a beautiful and peaceful escape."

"I loved that there was free parking available."

"The parks here are so peaceful and offer a lovely retreat."

Good to know

1

On Saturday, June 21st, 2025, there is a Caribbean event from 1 pm to 4 pm with different food vendors.

2

Alcohol consumption and pets are not allowed in the park.

3

The park offers free bike rentals from May to October.

07
Connetquot Hatchery image 1

Tree-lined trails lead through woods to a hatchery with baby and big trout. The area offers a relaxing nature walk with sights and sounds of the forest. Visitors often prepare for ticks and enjoy fly fishing opportunities.

Fly fishing stands out here with a hatchery that feeds fish daily between 3:30pm and 4pm. The hatchery also distributes fish to other local parks, and parking options include a main lot or direct access to the hatchery.

Fish basins and streams showcase raised fish and support fly fishing. Feeding happens daily around 3:30pm to 4pm, requiring a few quarters. The hatchery distributes fish to other parks and features fish decorations near it, though they can be cluttered and hard to see from above.

People are saying

"I found the fish beautiful to look at."

"I saw baby trout, big trout, and even talking trout at the Parks."

Good to know

1

Beware of ticks and wear bug spray when visiting.

2

Parking is available in the main lot or near the hatchery.

3

A 20-minute hike is required to reach the hatchery.

08
Captain Tilly Park image 1

Park offers a pond with fish, turtles, and birds alongside a children's playground and tree-lined paths. Atmosphere stays calm and peaceful, inviting relaxation and quiet reflection. Visitors often enjoy watching wildlife and spending time in a natural, serene setting.

Tranquil ponds with geese, ducks, and turtles create a peaceful setting. A tree-lined path and a playground offer spots for quiet walks and family fun.

A pond hosts small fish alongside turtles and various birds like ducks and geese. Occasional sightings include a rare blue heron and other wildlife around the water.

People are saying

"I found this park to be a peaceful sanctuary with lovely trees."

"It's a great spot for kids with a playground and play area."

"I saw fish, turtles, and birds in the pond."

Good to know

1

The restrooms are currently closed for renovations.

2

The park is most active after 2 p.m.

3

Expect litter and poor maintenance along the walking paths.

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