Wantagh Reservoir Fishing near North Bellmore, New York

• Overview

  Wantagh Reservoir is one of the Nassau County waters in New York. Tidal water begins 3.7 miles from here. About 5 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. Ground here is low by New York standards. The nearest place of any size is North Bellmore, 0.7 miles away. North Wantagh lies 0.7 miles off, Wantagh another 1 mile. You are close to a county edge here; who manages the access can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Wantagh Reservoir

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. County-wide records name common carp, pumpkinseed, largemouth bass, bluegill and goldfish. Protected fish appear in the records for this area, so treat the list as information, not an invitation. Wantagh Reservoir gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 31°F in January up to 75°F in July. In milder years the surface never sets. Cover comes and goes, so treat it with suspicion rather than trust. Spring and autumn carry the year; summer squeezes it into the ends of the day. Plan around that when you fish Wantagh Reservoir.

• Tackle & Baits

  The bank is open to all, according to our records. Parking within 80 yards means no long carry with tackle. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. Rules differ from one water to the next round here. Some ground is open by custom rather than by right, so tread carefully. The nearest alternative is Seaman Pond, 1.2 miles out. For Wantagh Reservoir, the notice at the access point is the final word.