Fishing East Bay in Herkimer County, New York

• Overview

  Herkimer County, New York, is where East Bay sits. The water sits 1,788 feet up. It measures about 184 acres, which is a comfortable size for bank fishing. On our Herkimer County list it sits near the top for size. For a base, Boonville sits 26 miles out. Lowville is 30 miles away, with Carthage at 40 miles. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on East Bay

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. Salt and fresh mix here, and the mixing line is worth finding. Flats either side fish on the drop as bait is pushed off them. Survey and observation records for Herkimer County include white sucker, yellow perch, brook trout, brown bullhead and brown trout. The county figures include rivers and lakes alike. Take East Bay a stretch at a time.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give July about 64°F and January about 13°F. Four clear seasons, with a proper winter at one end. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough mid April. Averages place the thaw at mid April and the freeze at early December. Right after break-up, and again as the nights sharpen, is when to go. At East Bay the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. There is no mapped parking or launch nearby, which keeps numbers down. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Where the road in crosses private land, ask first. Signs go up and come down, so check on the day. The nearest alternative is Little Moose Lake, 0.6 miles out. Rules at East Bay are worth checking on the day.