Middle Branch Reservoir Fishing near Brewster, New York

• Overview

  Middle Branch Reservoir falls in Putnam County, part of New York. Salt water lies 17 miles off. The water covers around 440 acres, which puts most of it out of reach from the bank. The edge covers about 5.5 miles, enough to hold several distinct areas. It is among the larger waters listed here for Putnam County. Brewster is the closest town at 1.4 miles. After that come Carmel Hamlet at 2.3 miles and Brewster Hill at 2.5 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Middle Branch Reservoir

  No depth figure has reached our records, which makes a plummet useful. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Fish documented in Putnam County include brown trout, bluegill and largemouth bass. Records at county level tell you what is around, not what is stocked here. At Middle Branch Reservoir the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The range across the year is 26°F to 72°F. Fishing continues through most of the calendar, with quiet spells rather than closures. Hard water here is never dependable, so check for yourself before stepping out. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. Time your trip to Middle Branch Reservoir by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Who may fish here is not settled in anything we hold. Parking sits half a mile out, which makes for a walk with tackle. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Check whether a boat is allowed before you tow one. Where the way in crosses private ground, ask first. Michael Brook at 0.9 miles is the sensible second choice. What applies at Middle Branch Reservoir may have changed since it was mapped.