What You'll Find at Nimham Mountain State Forest

Nimham Mountain State Forest sits in the town of Carmel, about 15 miles north of Cold Spring, and gives you access to mixed hardwood forest, rocky ridges, and two small ponds that hold largemouth bass and bluegill. The forest spans roughly 4,000 acres across state-owned land, with trails that climb to open rock outcrops where you can see south toward the Hudson Valley. If you're coming from lower Putnam or Westchester, this is a closer alternative to the bigger state forests further north, and the fishing pressure is lighter than at more famous spots.

The two ponds—Nimham Pond and Sunk Mine Pond—are the main draw for anglers. Both are shallow, weedy systems that warm up quickly in spring and hold decent populations of largemouth bass in the 10- to 14-inch range. Bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish are abundant and willing, making this a solid spot if you're bringing kids or want a day when you're not fighting crowds. The ponds are also accessible by foot from the main parking area, which means you won't need a boat to fish them.

Key Takeaways

  • Nimham Pond and Sunk Mine Pond hold largemouth bass and bluegill, with lighter fishing pressure than more popular Putnam County spots.
  • The main parking area is on Nimham Road in Carmel, and both ponds are reachable by hiking trails from there.
  • Spring and early summer are the best seasons for bass; bluegill bite steadily from late May through September.
  • New York State fishing license is required; no special permit is needed for these ponds.
  • Trails also lead to open rock outcrops and ridge views, so you can combine fishing with hiking in one trip.

How to Reach the Ponds and Parking

The main entrance is on Nimham Road in Carmel, just off NY-301. There is a small parking area at the trailhead; it fills up on weekends but rarely overflows on weekdays. From the parking lot, a marked trail heads east toward Nimham Pond, which is roughly a 20-minute walk. Sunk Mine Pond lies further north and requires a longer hike, but the trail is well-maintained and blazed.

If you're coming from the south (Cold Spring or Garrison), take US-9 north to NY-301 and head west. The turn onto Nimham Road is easy to miss; look for the state forest sign. GPS coordinates for the parking area are approximately 41.4°N, 73.8°W, which will get you close. There is no fee to park or fish, and the area is open year-round during daylight hours.

Bass Fishing in Spring and Early Summer

Largemouth bass at Nimham Pond spawn in April and May, and that's when you'll see the most active feeding. Fish shallow areas near the weeds and fallen timber with soft plastics—4-inch worms or creature baits work well. Early morning and late afternoon are your best windows. The pond is small enough that you can cover most of it from shore in a few hours, and the bass are not particularly line-shy.

By June, the water warms and the bass move deeper into the weed beds. Switch to topwater lures early and late in the day, then move to weightless soft plastics or small crankbaits in the deeper pockets. Sunk Mine Pond tends to stay slightly cooler and holds fish a bit deeper year-round, so if Nimham is producing nothing, the extra hike is worth trying.

Bluegill and Sunfish Through Summer and Fall

Bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish are the most reliable catch at both ponds from late May through September. They school in shallow water near vegetation and will hit small jigs, panfish spinners, or live crickets and worms. A light spinning rod and 4-pound test is all you need. Kids catch them easily, and a few hours of bluegill fishing can fill a cooler if you're keeping them for a meal.

Fall brings a brief uptick in activity as water cools in September and October. The bluegill bite slows by November, and both ponds become less productive through winter. If you're fishing in fall, focus on the deeper holes and the transition zones between shallow and deep water.

Trails and What to Bring

The forest has several marked trails beyond the pond routes. The ridge trail climbs to open rock outcrops with views south toward the Hudson; it's a popular hiking destination separate from fishing. Trails are blazed in yellow and white, and a map is posted at the parking area. Bring water, especially in summer, and wear sturdy boots—the terrain is rocky and can be slippery after rain.

For fishing, pack a small tackle box with soft plastics, spinners, and a few topwater lures. A net is helpful if you're keeping fish. The ponds have no facilities—no restrooms, no water, no shade shelters—so plan accordingly. Insect repellent is essential in June and July.

Regulations and Licensing

You need a New York State fishing license to fish Nimham Pond or Sunk Mine Pond. Licenses are sold online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website, at most sporting goods stores, and at some bait shops in Carmel and Mahopac. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you're just trying the spot once.

Daily bag limits for largemouth bass are five fish per day with a 12-inch minimum length. Bluegill and sunfish have no size or bag limit. The ponds are open to fishing year-round, but water levels can drop in late summer, making some areas unfishable. Check current conditions before a long drive.

When to Fish and What to Expect

Spring (April through May) is peak season for bass activity and the best time to visit if you want action. Summer (June through August) is good for bluegill and a secondary option for bass early and late in the day. Fall (September through October) sees fewer anglers and a brief uptick in bass feeding as water cools. Winter is slow and the ponds can be iced over by January.

Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends. The parking area rarely fills completely, and you'll have more of the ponds to yourself. If you're new to the spot, a weekday trip gives you time to explore both ponds and figure out where the fish are holding without pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Nimham Pond and Sunk Mine Pond with a boat?

No boats are permitted on either pond. Both are small enough to fish effectively from shore, and the shallow, weedy structure makes wading difficult. Stick to casting from the bank or wade carefully in the shallows near the parking area.

Are there any other fish species in these ponds?

Largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed sunfish are the main species. Carp and catfish may be present but are not commonly caught. Focus on bass and bluegill for the most consistent results.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late afternoon (4 p.m. to sunset) are most productive for bass. Bluegill bite throughout the day but are more active in morning and evening. Midday is slower but still worth fishing if that's when you have time.

Is there camping at Nimham Mountain State Forest?

No camping is permitted at Nimham Mountain. The forest is day-use only. If you want to stay overnight in the area, nearby towns like Carmel and Mahopac have motels and campgrounds.

How crowded does this spot get?

Nimham Mountain is less crowded than larger state forests like Harriman, but it draws hikers and anglers on weekends. Weekday visits are much quieter. The parking area has space for roughly 15 to 20 vehicles and rarely fills completely.