Fishing Pells Pond in Orange County, New York

• Overview

  Pells Pond is listed under Orange County, New York. The water sits 190 feet up. At roughly 3 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. On size it sits at the modest end of our Orange County list. Supplies mean a trip to Highland Falls, 0.9 miles off. Further out sit Fort Montgomery (2 miles) and West Point (2.5 miles). The line between counties passes nearby, which can change who manages the water.

• Where to Fish on Pells Pond

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Bays and points beat straight shoreline every time on water like this. Reported across Orange County: common carp, brook trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed and brown trout. Take it as the county picture rather than a promise for this water. Pells Pond responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Between January at about 27°F and July at about 73°F, the water has a wide range to work through. Most months fish reasonably, given the right weather. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. Time your trip to Pells Pond by conditions rather than dates.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Look for a notice board at the entrance. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Crystal Lake sits 0.2 miles off and takes the overflow. Ask locally about Pells Pond if anything is unclear.