Long Island is home to some of the greatest fishing found on this planet, a gem that’s only a day trip away from New York City.

Over 400 miles of coastline and 30+ miles of streams make up the island originally named “Paumanauke” by Native Americans, meaning ‘tribute to the sea.’ The range of inshore and offshore trips that the island offers are extraordinary opportunities to explore the waters.

Most people think of epic deep-sea battles when Long Island comes to mind, and they’re right- world-renowned bass blitzes at Montauk Point have effectively made it known as the sportfishing capital of the Northeast. However, Long Island has over 500 lakes and ponds and is a major freshwater fishing destination too.

Top saltwater species you can find on Long Island include Striped Bass, Atlantic Cod, Black Sea Bass, Winter Flounder, Bluefin Tuna, and Fluke. Long Island Sound alone has over 100 fish species! Freshwater fish found in abundance throughout lakes and ponds include Largemouth Bass, Perch, Trout, and even some Walleye. The biggest freshwater lake is Lake Ronkonkoma with a basin that can get as deep as 65 ft.

Seasonality in Long Island greatly depends on what type of fishing excursion you’re looking for. September is home to the big fall run, but the springtime has hotspots of its own too. Many anglers travel for the numerous fishing tournaments that take place on the island all year long. The island is home to the Long Island Bassmasters, a bass fishing club that hosts annual freshwater tournaments.