Fishing in Highland Falls, New York

Highland Falls sits at the edge of the Hudson Highlands, and the fishing here is almost entirely still water — five lakes and ponds within reach of town, each with its own character. Stilwell Lake and Mine Lake sit inside the Harriman-Bear Mountain corridor, which means foot access and a quieter experience than you'd get at a drive-up reservoir. Cranberry Pond and Popolopen Lake are worth the short hike in, particularly in spring when water temperatures are still cool and fish are actively feeding near the surface. Weyants Pond is the most accessible of the group and a reasonable option if you're fishing with kids or keeping the day low-key. All five are lake and pond fisheries, so expect largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and panfish as your primary targets — this isn't a trout-stream destination, and you should plan your gear accordingly. New York State fishing regulations apply throughout, and because several of these waters fall within state park boundaries, it's worth checking current DEC rules before you go. A basic spinning setup handles everything you'll encounter here, and a kayak or canoe opens up the better structure on the larger lakes.