What You'll Find at Calverton Ponds

Calverton Ponds is a series of shallow freshwater ponds in central Long Island, roughly 20 miles northeast of New York City in the town of Riverhead. The ponds sit on land that was once a military installation and are now managed as a public fishing area. You'll find largemouth bass, pickerel, sunfish, and catfish in these ponds — the largemouth bass population is the main draw for most anglers.

The ponds are relatively small and heavily vegetated, with lily pads, reeds, and submerged timber throughout. This structure makes them excellent for bass fishing, especially in spring and early summer when the fish move into shallow water to spawn. The ponds are also quieter than many other Long Island fisheries because they're less well-known and have limited access points.

Key Takeaways

  • Calverton Ponds holds largemouth bass, pickerel, sunfish, and catfish, with bass being the primary target species.
  • The ponds are shallow and heavily vegetated, making them best fished with soft plastics, topwater lures, and live bait near structure.
  • You must have a valid New York State fishing license to fish here, and the ponds are open year-round with no special permits required.
  • Access is limited to a few parking areas and walking paths, so arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
  • Spring and early summer are the most productive seasons for largemouth bass; fall can also be good as fish feed heavily before winter.

Access and Parking

Calverton Ponds can be reached via County Road 111 in Riverhead. There is a small parking area near the main pond access point, though spaces are limited — typically 8 to 12 spots depending on which entrance you use. During weekends and holidays, especially in spring and early summer, this lot fills quickly. If the main lot is full, you may find overflow parking along the road itself, though this is not always reliable.

The walk from the parking area to the water is short, usually less than a quarter mile. The paths are maintained but can be muddy or overgrown depending on the season. Wear waterproof boots if you plan to fish the banks, as the ground around the ponds stays wet year-round. There are no facilities — no restrooms, no water, no shade structures — so bring what you need for the day.

Seasons and Best Times to Fish

Spring, from April through May, is the peak season at Calverton Ponds. Water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, and largemouth bass move into the shallows to spawn. Topwater lures and soft plastics worked around the vegetation produce consistent results. Early morning and late evening are most productive, though overcast days can be good throughout the day.

Summer (June through August) can be productive early and late in the day, but midday fishing is often slow as bass retreat to deeper water and shade. The ponds are shallow, so fish don't have far to go — they'll be under the thickest vegetation and in any deeper holes. Live shiners or crawfish fished on the bottom can work when surface activity slows.

Fall (September through October) brings another strong bite as water cools and bass feed heavily before winter. The vegetation begins to die back, making it easier to cast and fish. Winter fishing is possible but slow; the ponds don't freeze solid most years, but fish are lethargic and concentrated in the deepest areas.

What Tackle and Techniques Work Best

For largemouth bass, bring a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod with 8- to 12-pound test line. Soft plastic worms and crawfish in dark colors (black, brown, green) work well rigged Texas-style or on a jighead. Topwater lures — poppers and walking baits — are excellent in spring and early morning when the water is calm. Cast tight to the vegetation and work the lure slowly; these ponds reward patience over speed.

Pickerel, which are common here, will hit the same lures as bass but often prefer faster retrieves. Small spoons and spinners can be productive for pickerel and sunfish. If you want to target catfish, bring chicken liver, cut shad, or commercial stink baits and fish the bottom with a simple sinker rig. Catfish are most active at dusk and after dark.

Live bait — shiners, crawfish, or small bluegill — works for all species and is often the most reliable choice if you're not confident with artificial lures. A simple slip-sinker rig or a bobber rig will work depending on the depth and structure you're fishing.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid New York State fishing license to fish Calverton Ponds. Licenses are available online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website, by mail, or at many sporting goods stores and bait shops across Long Island. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you're visiting for a single trip.

Largemouth bass have a minimum size limit of 12 inches and a daily limit of five fish. Pickerel have a 15-inch minimum and a daily limit of five fish. Sunfish and catfish have no size or bag limits. These regulations can change, so check the current DEC regulations before you go. Calverton Ponds has no special restrictions beyond state-wide rules.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent — the ponds are surrounded by marsh and brush, and mosquitoes can be heavy in summer and early fall. A headlamp or flashlight is useful if you plan to fish early morning or evening. Waders are not necessary but can be helpful if you want to wade the shallows; the bottom is soft mud and can be slippery.

Expect to share the ponds with other anglers on weekends and holidays, especially in spring. The atmosphere is generally quiet and respectful. You may also see wading birds, turtles, and other wildlife — the ponds are part of a larger ecosystem and are worth observing beyond just fishing. The area can feel isolated despite being close to suburban Long Island, which is part of its appeal.

Getting There from Other Long Island Destinations

From the Long Island Expressway (I-495), take Exit 70 and head north on County Road 111. The ponds are roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the expressway depending on traffic. From the North Fork or Shelter Island, Calverton Ponds is about 30 to 45 minutes south. From the South Fork (East Hampton, Montauk), it's roughly an hour west.

If you're staying in central Long Island and want a quick freshwater outing without driving far, Calverton Ponds is one of the closest options. The trade-off is that the ponds are small and can get crowded, so timing your visit for a weekday or off-peak season will improve your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Calverton Ponds year-round?

Yes, the ponds are open year-round with no seasonal closures. However, winter fishing is slow and the ponds rarely freeze solid enough to prevent access. Spring and fall are the most productive times.

Do I need a boat to fish here?

No. Calverton Ponds is a shore-fishing-only area. You cannot launch a kayak, canoe, or motorboat. All fishing is done from the banks or by wading in the shallows.

Are there bait and tackle shops nearby?

Yes. Several bait and tackle shops operate in Riverhead and surrounding towns. The closest are typically 5 to 10 minutes from the ponds. Bring your own tackle if possible, as availability can vary by season.

What's the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late evening (late afternoon to sunset) are most productive year-round. Overcast days can be good throughout the day. Midday summer fishing is usually slow.

Can I catch and keep fish for dinner?

Yes. Largemouth bass and pickerel are edible and legal to keep within the daily limits. Catfish are also good eating. Sunfish are small but can be kept. Always follow current size and bag limits before keeping any fish.