Rainbow Trout

If you're chasing rainbows near Lake Grove, New York, you'll want to focus your attention on the freshwater streams and ponds that dot Long Island. While not as famous as some western trout fisheries, these waters offer a surprising opportunity to hook into stocked rainbow trout, especially after the spring and fall stocking programs. The Nissequogue River and the Connetquot River State Park Preserve are two excellent options. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are prime times, coinciding with stocking and cooler water temperatures. Access to the Nissequogue is relatively easy from several points along Route 25A, but be mindful of private property. A local tip: small spinners and brightly colored nymphs often produce well in these waters. The trout here are typically stocked at a catchable size, so focus on presentation and finding areas with good flow and cover.