Fishing on Lake Ronkonkoma in Lake Ronkonkoma, New York

Lake Ronkonkoma, located at almost the exact middle of Long Island, New York, just happens to be Long Island's largest freshwater lake. It was formed by ancient glaciers and has some unusually deep spots for Long Island. Most of the lake is less than 15 feet deep, however.

In 2002, an Army Blackhawk helicopter dropped 150 hardwood tree stumps into Lake Ronkonkoma. The reason? The stumps were to provide fish with places to feed, hide and rest. The results of the above-mentioned and other actions to restore the ecological health of the lake have been a resounding success.

According to the Department of Environmental Conservation website, the following species can now be found:
largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, bluegill, pumpkinseed, black crappie, yellow perch, white perch, carp and brown bullhead, among others. The lake is also periodically stocked with walleye.

There is a 100 ft. accessible fishing pier at the north end of the lake. This pier is highly recommended as it may provide access to some of the best fishing. Seasonal parking fees may apply.

If you want to fish from a boat, just remember that gas motors are prohibited. Boat launching can be done on the west side of the lake. No special permits are needed for boating or fishing.

In addition to fishing, there are picnic tables, playgrounds for children, walking paths and miles of sandy shore. The million dollar efforts to restore the quiet and pristine beauty of this beautiful natural resource are paying off handily with renewed activity at the lake and adjacent Suffolk County Park.

Access to the lake is easiest if you take the Long Island Expressway to Exit 59 (Ocean Avenue). Head north and continue on the road to the left as it turns into Rosevale Avenue. Make a right onto Victory Drive which is about another one-half mile further. There will be a Department of Conservation Access Sign. Continue to the end of the road. The fishing access site is on the left.

So, there you go. Relaxation, beauty and possibly tonight's dinner, right in your own backyard!

Source:www. dec.ny.gov.outdoor/24173.html