Old Forge Pond Fishing: Access to the Fulton Chain of Lakes

If you’re staying in Old Forge and launching onto Old Forge Pond, you’ll find plenty to get excited about. The pond offers a diverse range of fish species, making it a favorite spot for anglers. It’s especially known for white sucker, black bullhead, yellow perch, rock bass, and rainbow trout.

Old Forge Pond, in the town of Old Forge, offers a unique fishing experience. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Old Forge and neighboring areas, the pond provides a serene backdrop for anglers seeking a variety of fishing opportunities. 

With an average depth of 4 feet and a maximum depth of 11 feet, Old Forge Pond presents a relatively shallow underwater terrain, creating an accessible and inviting environment for anglers of all skill levels.

With a shoreline length of 2.1 miles, Old Forge Pond offers ample space for anglers to explore its fishing grounds. A notable feature of this pond is its connectivity to nearby bodies of water, allowing boaters to navigate from Old Forge Pond all the way to 5th Lake in Inlet.

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Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (March, April, May)

In spring, successful fishing on Old Forge Pond often comes down to understanding how white suckers behave as water temperatures begin to rise. These fish become especially active around river mouths and in shallow, slow-moving areas. Anglers targeting white suckers during this season typically rely on bottom fishing rigs, outfitted with coarse terminal tackle such as sinkers and bait-holder hooks, and baited with nightcrawlers or shrimp for best results.

Spring also brings excellent opportunities to catch black bullhead and yellow perch, which—like white suckers—tend to move into shallower, muddy-bottomed areas as the water warms. Techniques used for suckers often work just as well for these species. Live bait, especially worms and crayfish imitations, are popular choices. Having a well-organized tackle bag with a variety of coarse terminal tackle—including swivels, leader line, and extra hooks—makes it easy to adapt on the water and target multiple species throughout the day.

Summer (June, July, August)

As summer sets in, rainbow trout tend to retreat to deeper, cooler waters within the pond. When fishing for rainbow trout on Old Forge Pond many fishermen employ techniques like trolling or casting with artificial lures such as spinners and spoons.

Additionally, catches of rock bass are also common when fishing on Old Forge Pond in the summer. Like fishing for perch, soft plastics work well. Senko Worms, Berkeley Powerbait Power Worms, and Zoom Bait’s Brush Hogs and Trick Worms are common local favorites.

Fall (September, October, November)

As fall approaches, rock bass in Old Forge Pond begin to shift their behavior, gathering around rocky areas and structure along the shoreline. Anglers looking to take advantage of this seasonal change often find success by experimenting with different techniques. Casting small jigs or using live bait near rocks and drop-offs can be particularly effective for drawing strikes from these concentrated fish.

Fall also continues to offer great opportunities for rainbow trout. As the water cools, trout remain active and can be found cruising in search of food. Anglers can increase their odds by adjusting their approach—fishing slightly deeper, downsizing lures, or timing outings during low-light hours when trout are most aggressive.

With cooler weather and changing conditions, it’s a good idea to carry a dry bag to keep essentials like extra clothing, tackle, and electronics safe from the elements. A rod protector also goes a long way in preventing damage when transporting multiple setups or hiking into less accessible fishing spots.

Employing crayfish imitations (Berkley’s PowerBait Chigger Craw of the YUM Christie Craw are good choices) and small crankbaits emerges as a particularly effective method, not only for enticing bites from rainbow trout but also for engaging with other species that share the lake.

Winter (December, January, February)

In winter, Old Forge Pond’s fishing conditions become more challenging as water temperatures drop. However, anglers can still target certain species like yellow perch, which often remain active in deeper sections of the lake.

Ice fishing is a popular fishing technique during this season, with anglers using specialized gear and bait to lure fish through the ice. Additionally, white suckers may still be present in some areas, offering opportunities for patient anglers to catch fish even in colder conditions.

What Old Forge Pond is Known For

Old Forge Pond, located in the heart of Old Forge, New York, offers easy access and a scenic setting for anglers. While the pond itself is best known for species like rock bass, yellow perch, and white sucker, many fishermen use it as a launch point to explore the broader Fulton Chain of Lakes, where more sought-after game fish—such as bass, northern pike, muskie, and landlocked salmon—are more commonly found, particularly in the deeper waters beyond Fifth Lake.

Fishing is a core part of the local culture, with residents often sharing tips on productive spots and seasonal techniques. Regular fishing derbies in the area provide opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers to test their skills and compete for prizes in a friendly, community-driven environment.

Beyond fishing, Old Forge serves as a year-round hub for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, camping, and hiking in the surrounding Adirondack Park. The town also features the historic Thendara Golf Course, once played by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer.

The town also hosts events such as the Adirondack Birding Festival, celebrating the rich birdlife around Moss Lake and other natural areas. Winter activities include ice skating, downhill skiing at McCauley Mountain, and exploring the extensive snowmobiling trails that have earned Old Forge the title of “The Snowmobile Capital of the East.”

Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points

Accessing Old Forge Pond is conveniently facilitated by several public access points strategically positioned around the shoreline. Boaters and anglers alike can take advantage of well-maintained public boat ramps, ensuring a seamless entry into the calm waters of the pond.

For those arriving from Route 28, a primary artery connecting the town to the broader region, a straightforward journey leads to the Old Forge Pond’s public access points. Additionally, South Shore Road provides another convenient route for those seeking entry to the water.

The strategic placement of these access points ensures that visitors can easily transport their boats and gear, enhancing the overall experience of exploring Old Forge Pond.