Stony Point Fishing Guide: Seasons, Species & Historic Charm

Stony Point attracts fishermen with its varied fish population. Popular fish species in the area include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, striped bass, and bluegill. The fishing season for largemouth and smallmouth bass typically runs from June 15 to November 30, with a size limit of 15 inches. Striped bass, a predatory species able to live in both saltwater and freshwater, has an open season from April 1 to November 30, with a size limit of 18–28 inches.

Stony Point, situated in Rockland County, New York, is a town surrounded by the landscapes of the Hudson River and Westchester County. Located north of Haverstraw, east and south of Orange County, Stony Point is an integral part of the New York City Metropolitan Area. 

The town’s name is derived from a notable projection into the Hudson River. With a population of 14,813 as of the 2020 census, Stony Point maintains a rural character, standing out as the most rural of the five towns in Rockland County.

Stony Point offers fishermen access to one of the most celebrated waterways in the region. The Hudson River stretches over 315 miles. The town benefits from its proximity to this historic river, providing fishermen with multiple fishing opportunities. The average depth of the Hudson River south of Troy, near Stony Point, is approximately 30 feet, while the maximum depth reaches 202 feet. 

Whether casting a line from the shore or navigating the Hudson River by boat, Stony Point provides anglers with a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. 

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Seasonal Fishing Techniques

Spring (March to May)

During the spring at Stony Point on the Hudson River, fishermen focus their efforts on targeting striped bass. This period, extending from March to May, is particularly favorable for catching stripers as they engage in their spawning season. 

As April approaches, striped bass start migrating to the brackish waters near New York City, specifically Lower New York Bay. Fishermen in Stony Point take advantage of this migration, exploring the waters in and around the area. The use of live bait or rigs of chunked herring, blood worms, or sandworms is recommended to entice striped bass in the spring.

For fishermen looking to broaden their fishing possibilities, other fish species present in the Hudson River during spring.

These include bluefish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and brown trout, which can all be targeted by spinning or fly fishing from the shore. 

Summer (June to July)

As the temperatures rise in the summer months, Stony Point on the Hudson River becomes a fishing hotspot with multiple fishing opportunities. Striped bass continue to be active, providing anglers with thrilling battles. During this time, these fish are dispersed throughout the river, making various areas around Stony Point productive for striper fishing.

Additionally, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass remain present, and anglers can explore the freshwater sections around Stony Point for bass fishing.

Techniques such as using topwater lures, plastic worms, or live bait prove effective during the summer months. For a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to secure your boat with reliable anchors and always wear a PFD while on the water.

Fall (August to November)

As the summer transitions into fall, Stony Point witnesses a change in the fishing scene. Striped bass make their way back downstream after the spawning season, providing fishermen with another opportunity to target these prized game fish. The fall run of striped bass is known for its intensity, drawing fishermen to the waters near Stony Point.

Moreover, fall is an excellent time for bass fishing.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass continue to be active, and fishermen can explore the diverse fishing spots around Stony Point.

Winter (December to February)

Winter fishing at Stony Point on the Hudson River unveils a distinct set of opportunities for fishermen with a love for cold-weather adventures.

During the winter months, while some anglers choose to stay indoors, others continue fishing by targeting yellow perch, a hardy species that remains active in cold water.

These fish can be effectively caught using coarse rigs such as simple ledger rigs, feeder setups, or float rigs baited with maggots, worms, or small jigs.

Yellow perch tend to school in deeper, slower-moving waters during winter, making them accessible for persistent fishermen who are properly equipped.

As temperatures drop, yellow perch becomes a prime target in the freshwater stretches of the Hudson River. Ice fishing enthusiasts can employ specialized techniques tailored for winter conditions, such as jigging with small lures or bait. These techniques prove effective in enticing yellow perch lurking in the waters around Stony Point.

What Stony Point is Known For

Stony Point has a rich fishing heritage, drawing fishermen like Kevin J Legg to its waters for memorable catches. In a report from Plessis, NY, Legg detailed a successful outing south of Stony Point.

Early in the morning, chartreuse/silver spoons and sticks proved effective, later transitioning to black spoons. Legg’s impressive haul included sixteen brown trout, two lake trout, and the release of a notable walleye and a small Atlantic salmon. 

Fishing depths ranged from 7-12 feet in the early hours to 14-20 feet later, with downriggers set at 7 feet. Stony Point, with its many fishing opportunities, continues to be a chosen destination for fishermen seeking both quantity and variety in their catches.

Beyond its fishing allure, Stony Point’s local community vibrates with many activities and events. The Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site stands as a historical gem, marking the site of the July 16, 1779 Battle of Stony Point during the Revolutionary War. 

General “Mad” Anthony Wayne’s successful midnight assault against a British Garrison is commemorated at this preserved battlefield, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation’s past.

Additionally, the site hosts the oldest lighthouse in the Hudson Valley. The community thrives with various activities, events, and festivals.

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

Situated along Battlefield Road in the Town of Stony Point, New York, the Battlefield Road Town of Stony Point boat ramp stands as a key access point to the majestic Hudson River. This concrete boat ramp, spanning 12 feet in width, caters to small watercraft enthusiasts, including kayakers, canoeists, and jon boat owners. 

As per the Town of Stony Point’s website, the ramp is open to the public, providing an opportunity to navigate the scenic waters of the Hudson River. However, it’s essential to note that the narrow ramp may pose challenges for launching and retrieving larger boats. 

The site offers convenient amenities, including a parking area accommodating up to 25 vehicles with trailers. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the surroundings with picnic tables and access to a portable restroom.