Hancock, New York: Fishing Gateway to the Upper Delaware

Hancock, New York. Now that's not New York City or Lake George so you've likely never heard of it. Hancock is a small town 37 miles east of Binghampton, New York right on the New York/Pennsylvania boarder. Small towns like Hancock may appear as if they have not much to offer but looks can be deceiving.

The biggest attractions in Hancock are fishing, fishing and more fishing. Back some years ago, Field and Stream magazine started rating various trout fishing streams and the Hancock area rated among the highest. Since then, Hancock has become a fisherman's haven.

Hancock is described by many as "The Gateway to the Upper Delaware" because the east and west branches of the Delaware run through Hancock. The east branch of the river is generally warmer and deeper. Those things don't do well with trout fishing. The west branch on the other hand is a totally different story. Shallow in many areas and cold everywhere, the west branch of the Delaware River in Hancock, New York makes for excellent brown and rainbow trout fishing. Fly fishing is the preferred method for catching trout in the area but over the years, many have been caught using other bait as well.

As far as fishing gear, Hancock will serve you well. With Marino's Outdoor World store located at 25 East Front Street in Downtown Hancock, you'll be well set up.

Fly-fishing isn't just something you can wing. It takes some time to learn and Hancock has you covered once again. Check out Al Caucci's Delaware River Club and Fly Fishing Resort at www.mayfly.com. They specialize in teaching others how to fly fish and hooking you up with the best gear to do so.

The Grand Union Supermarket is the town's only grocery store. Prices are higher than you'll find at a city Walmart super center or a Wegmans but they're not out of this world and you should have no problem finding what you need. Hancock has a Rite Aid for all of your pharmacy and convenience items as well as four gas station/convenience stores and a McDonalds for fast food.

For local restaurants in the area that serve excellent food, there's the Delaware Inn/Restaurant for luscious American dishes, The LaSallete and Three Guys From Italy Restaurants for scrumptious Italian food, and Ruth's Copper Kettle, The Hancock Family restaurant and the Circle E Diner for really decent food that won't drain your wallet.

For Lodging, right in downtown Hancock on the west side is the Capra Inn/Motel. It's a decent basic place to stay and the room prices are reasonable. Next door to the Motel is the Capra Cinema that is always showing the latest box office releases. 2 movie tickets are included with a room rental. They are located on 103 West Main Street in downtown Hancock just a stone's throw from McDonalds. You can reach them at 607-637-1600. Also, about a mile or two out of town is The Smith Colonial Hotel on Rt. 97 that may better suite those who want a quieter (though not completely silent) stay. You can reach them at 607-637-2989.

For those of you who may want a bit more of a tranquil remote setting there is Bass Mountain Top and Golf Course Cabins. They're located about 10 miles from the town of Hancock via Rt. 97. Check them out at www.bassenterprises.com and click on "Mountain Top and Golf Course Cabins". You can reach them at 845-887-4595.

Its not just fishing that gives others a reason to visit Hancock. Hancock is much like a small town that you may read about in an old novel or see in an old movie. I was born and raised in Hancock and in my 37 years, I've seen a vast amount of changes to the area but much of it remains the same.

Hancock is only 150 miles from New York City, 220 miles from Philadelphia, PA and 290 miles from Boston, Mass. So it's perfect for a weekend getaway during fishing season that's definitely worth checking out. Don't be surprised if you happen to see a Bald Eagle soar over or snatch a fish right out of the river. It's a common scene in the area.