Allen Lake Fishing Guide, Herkimer County, New York

• Overview

  The Herkimer County end of New York holds Allen Lake. It sits at 1,640 feet above sea level. Around 55 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. There is roughly 1.2 miles of shoreline here, which is a short walk end to end. Start from Richfield Springs, 2.4 miles down the road. Further out sit Springfield (5 miles) and Cooperstown (9 miles). Being near a boundary, it pays to know which side you are fishing.

• Where to Fish on Allen Lake

  Depth is unmeasured here, so let the shoreline guide you. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Public occurrence data for Herkimer County names white sucker, yellow perch, brook trout and brown bullhead. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Work Allen Lake in sections rather than trying to cover it.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 67°F; the cold one sits at 19°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. Look for the thaw near early April; the fishing lifts straight after. The lid tends to go about early April and return around mid December. June through September is the settled part of the year, with the shoulders busier for fish. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Allen Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  No access rule appears in what we hold. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Failing this one, try Bailey Pond, 1.3 miles away. Signs at Allen Lake carry more weight than any list.