What You'll Find at Forge Pond

Forge Pond is a shallow freshwater pond in Riverhead that holds largemouth bass and chain pickerel year-round. The pond sits roughly 60 acres and runs deepest near its center, but most of the shoreline and structure you'll fish stays under 8 feet. That shallow character means the bass here respond well to topwater and soft plastics worked slowly through the weeds and around the scattered stumps that dot the bottom.

The pond's real draw is its weed growth. From late spring through early fall, aquatic vegetation covers much of the shallower areas, creating natural highways for bass moving between feeding zones. Pickerel love the same weeds and will hit small spinnerbaits and crankbaits with aggression. The pond also holds sunfish and some catfish, which means if the bass bite slows you have other options.

Key Takeaways

  • Forge Pond holds largemouth bass and chain pickerel in shallow water, with most productive fishing in weeds and around stumps.
  • Access is from the parking area on Forge Pond Road; the pond has a public boat launch and shore fishing is possible along the eastern bank.
  • Spring and fall produce the most consistent bass action, while summer requires early morning or dusk fishing to avoid the heat and heavy weed growth.
  • A New York State fishing license is required; no special permit is needed for Forge Pond itself.

Access and Parking

Forge Pond Road runs along the eastern side of the pond and provides the main public access point. There is a small parking area with room for several vehicles near the boat launch. The launch itself is a concrete ramp suitable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes — nothing elaborate, but functional and well-maintained by the town.

Shore fishing is possible along the eastern bank, particularly near the parking area and launch. The western and northern shorelines are less accessible due to private property and dense vegetation. If you plan to fish from shore, the eastern bank gives you the best angle to reach the deeper water and the weed lines that run parallel to the bank.

Seasonal Patterns and Best Times

Spring (April through May) is when Forge Pond bass move shallow to spawn. Largemouths will be in 2 to 4 feet of water around any available cover — fallen trees, stumps, and the early weed growth. Pickerel follow the same pattern. Early morning and late afternoon produce the most strikes, and the bite can be fast if you hit the right shallow pockets.

Summer (June through August) slows the daytime bite considerably. The pond warms and the weeds thicken, pushing bass deeper and making them less aggressive during midday. Fish early — before 8 a.m. — or wait until dusk. Topwater lures work well in low light, and soft plastics rigged Texas-style let you pick through the thickest weed growth without constant snagging.

Fall (September through October) brings the second-best bite of the year. Water temperature drops, bass move back to the shallows to feed heavily before winter, and the weed growth begins to die back, making the pond easier to navigate. This is when you can cover water effectively and find active fish throughout the day.

Winter (November through March) is slow but not impossible. Bass move to the deepest holes — usually near the center of the pond — and feed sporadically. Pickerel remain more active than bass in cold water. If you fish winter, focus on the deepest water you can reach and use slow-moving baits or live shiners.

What to Bring and How to Fish

For largemouth bass, bring a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod with 8- to 10-pound monofilament or braided line. Topwater plugs, soft plastic worms (4 to 6 inches), and small crankbaits all work. Texas-rigged plastics let you fish through the weeds without constant hang-ups. For pickerel, small spinnerbaits (1/4 to 3/8 ounce) and 3- to 4-inch soft plastics produce well.

If you bring live bait, shiners and small bluegill work for both bass and pickerel. A simple slip-sinker rig with a small hook lets you fish live bait near the weed edges or around stumps. Catfish will also take chicken liver or cut bait if you want to target them as a secondary option.

Wading is possible in the shallower areas, but the bottom is soft and muddy — wear boots with good grip or use a kayak to stay mobile. A kayak or small boat lets you reach the deeper weed lines and the center of the pond where larger bass often hold during the heat of the day.

Rules and Licensing

New York State requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website or at most tackle shops and sporting goods stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you're testing the water.

Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum size limit and a daily limit of five fish. Chain pickerel have no minimum size and no daily limit in most of New York, though this can change — check the current DEC regulations before you fish. Sunfish and catfish have no size or bag limits.

Nearby Water and Next Steps

If Forge Pond doesn't produce or you want to explore other options in Riverhead, the Peconic River runs nearby and holds similar species. Manorville Pond and Wildwood Lake are also within a short drive and offer different structure and weed patterns. Each pond has its own character, and moving between them on the same day can help you find where the fish are active.

Stop at a local tackle shop in Riverhead before your first trip. The staff there fish these ponds regularly and can tell you what's working that week — weed conditions change fast, and local knowledge saves time and frustration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Forge Pond year-round?

Yes, Forge Pond is open to fishing all year. Winter is slow, but pickerel remain active in cold water. Spring and fall are the most productive seasons for both bass and pickerel.

Do I need a boat to fish Forge Pond?

No. Shore fishing from the eastern bank near the parking area is productive, especially in spring and fall. A kayak or small boat gives you access to deeper water and weed lines, but it is not required.

What's the best lure for Forge Pond bass?

Topwater plugs work well in low light, and Texas-rigged soft plastics let you fish through thick weeds. Small crankbaits and spinnerbaits also produce. Match the lure size to the forage — small shiners and bluegill are common, so 3- to 4-inch lures are a good starting point.

Is there a boat launch fee?

There is no fee to launch at Forge Pond. The ramp is maintained by the town and open to the public during daylight hours.

What should I do if the weeds are too thick?

Fish the edges of the weed beds rather than through the middle. Cast parallel to the weed line and work lures slowly. Early spring and late fall have less weed growth and are easier to fish if thick vegetation frustrates you.