For many people, fishing is a relaxing way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. In addition to being an activity that can help you relieve stress, it’s also a fun and rewarding hobby. There are plenty of fish species to target, from panfish like crappie and bluegill to game fish such as muskie, northern pike and walleye. And no matter where you live, there are probably a lot of great lakes and ponds nearby. Find one with our Fish Local interactive map!
One of the best places to go fishing is right in your own backyard. There are countless ponds and lakes in parks that are easy to access and offer excellent fishing opportunities for both small and largemouth bass, sunfish, perch and trout. Some of these ponds are also home to other recreational activities, like hiking and biking. For example, in New York City’s Central Park, you’ll find Kissena Lake – a serene little lake that is often overshadowed by the hustle and bustle of the city. However, if you take the time to visit this lake, you’ll be surprised at how peaceful and pristine it is. This lake is home to a wide variety of aquatic species, including snook, trout, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish.
While there are many ponds that can be found around the country, not all of them are created equal. Some are better than others for certain species or times of the year. The key to finding the best fishing spots is looking for areas with structure or cover. Oftentimes, these areas can include submerged objects like logs and stumps, downed trees, weed edges or docks. These features not only create a good spot for anglers to cast, but they also provide cover and attract insects.
Bridges can also be a great place to look for fishing spots. Because they usually separate different parts of a lake, these spots often serve as funnels for bass and other fish when they are moving between spawning areas and summer haunts. Additionally, current can be created in these areas from a lake rising and falling or from natural flow on a riverine system.
So the next time you’re in need of a fish fix, be sure to head out to your local pond or lake and see what’s biting. With a little luck, you may be reeling in your very own trophy catch! And if you’re not, well at least you can enjoy the divine quiet. Then again, maybe that’s just what you need to inspire a return trip!