Moss Lake Fishing (AKA Whipple Lake) – Articles, Species and Tips
Moss Lake is connected to the North Branch Moose River through its outlet, providing a connection to the larger water network in the region. In terms of fish species in Moss Lake, the lake is home to brook trout, lake trout, Atlantic salmon, brown trout, largemouth bass,smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and black bullhead. These diverse fish species make Moss Lake an attractive fishing spot for fishermen of all skill levels.
Where is Moss Lake? Moss Lake, also known as Whipple Lake, is situated northwest of the Hamlet of Eagle Bay, New York in the Town of Webb, NY in Herkimer County which is in the Adirondack Park. The lake spans an area of 113 acres, with a surface elevation of 1,759 feet. Moss Lake is a popular ADK fishing spot, with an average depth of 19 feet and a maximum depth of 50 feet. The shoreline stretches 2.3 miles, offering ample opportunities for anglers to explore its diverse aquatic ecosystem.
Beyond its fishing appeal, Moss (or Whipple) Lake offers a range of recreational activities, making it a perfect spot for a day outdoors. Visitors can enjoy a picnic by the lake, embark on a hike, engage in cross-country skiing during winter, or even explore the surroundings on horseback. Wildlife enthusiasts will find Moss Lake to be a wonderful spot for observing local flora and fauna.
While motorboats are not allowed on Moss Lake, you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere of the lake through non-motorized activities like canoeing, kayaking, or fishing from the shore.
Other Great Fishing Spots In NY
Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
As spring unfolds at Moss Lake, NY, the ice begins to thaw, and the aquatic ecosystem reawakens. This period marks the prime time for brook trout fishing in the Adirondacks, as they become more active in the shallows. Anglers can enhance their spring fishing trip to Moss Lake by focusing on areas with submerged vegetation and rocky structures.
Using light tackle and brightly colored lures, such as spinners or small jigs, can be effective in enticing strikes. Exploring the lake’s inlet areas and casting into the emerging vegetation near the shorelines can yield exciting catches. Additionally, fly fishing with nymph patterns can be a rewarding method to target brook trout in the clear, cool waters of Moss Lake during the spring.
Summer (June to July)
As summer settles in, Moss Lake transforms into a perfect fishing spot for warm-water fish species, particularly the lively largemouth Adirondack bass. During these warm months, anglers can optimize their bass fishing experience by focusing on early morning and late evening periods when the water temperature is cooler. Targeting the lake’s submerged structures, such as sunken logs and underwater rock formations, with plastic worms, topwater lures, or swimbaits can yield impressive results for those kayak or canoe fishing on Moss Lake.
Additionally, fishing along the deeper channels near the lake’s center and employing Carolina rigs or deep-diving crankbaits can help locate larger bass. This season offers a diverse and thrilling bass fishing experience, with the chance to witness the lake’s vibrant ecosystem in full swing.
Fall (August to November)
As the foliage around Moss Lake starts to change, the fall season brings a shift in fishing patterns. While brook trout can still be pursued, the spotlight turns to largemouth bass. During this transitional period, anglers can find success by targeting drop-offs and submerged structures near deeper water.
There are two 40 ft deep holes in the western part of the lake. The first is 0.23 miles from the middle of the island in Moss Lake on a heading of 235 degrees. The other is 0.12 miles from the island on a heading of 247 degrees. On the eastern end of the lake, there is a 50 foot hole, 0.12 miles off the southern tip of the island on a heading of 314 degrees. These are the deepest parts of the lake and great Moss Lake fishing spots to find fish seeking deeper water.
Crankbaits, jerkbaits, and spinnerbaits become effective choices as bass become more aggressive in their feeding habits. The cooling water temperatures prompt bass to gather in preparation for winter, making them more concentrated and predictable. Fishing for bass near fallen trees, rocky points, and other structures becomes essential to capitalize on the fall bass feeding frenzy.
Winter (December to February)
Ice fishing is not permitted on Moss Lake in NY.
What is Moss Lake (Whipple Lake) known for?
Moss Lake, also known as Whipple Lake, has a rich historical legacy and a myriad of recreational opportunities. Spanning from 1923 to 1972, the grounds were home to the Moss Lake Camp for Girls, a sprawling 600-acre retreat overseen by Dr. George H. Longstaff.
This idyllic camp, which hosted nearly 3,000 girls, featured sleeping bungalows, an infirmary, dining rooms, and a variety of recreational facilities. Its mission centered on nurturing social and athletic development through activities like swimming, canoeing, diving, water skiing, and sailing.
In the present day, Moss Lake continues to hold a special place for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking and skiing. The Moss Lake Trail, a picturesque 2.5-mile loop weaving through the Fulton Chain Wild Forest, stands as a testament to this natural area’s enduring allure. Accessible to all ages and abilities, the trail incorporates wheelchair-friendly sections and a charming wooden bridge spanning the Moss Lake outlet.
Beyond its recreational appeal, Moss Lake stands as a historical landmark, contributing significantly to the vibrant community of Eagle Bay. Today, it serves as a cherished intersection of the past and present, inviting both locals and visitors to partake in the beauty of nature and the echoes of a bygone era.
Kayak and Canoe Launches and Public Access Points
In the quaint town of Inlet, accessing the serene body of water becomes a seamless experience. Travel south on Route 28 for a picturesque 2-mile journey toward Eagle Bay. Upon reaching the intersection of Route 28 and Big Moose Road (Route 1), take a right turn onto Big Moose Road.
After covering a little over 2 miles, you’ll find a spacious parking area on the left, available year-round. For those in need of handicap-accessible parking, a second lot awaits just a minute further down the road.
Engage with the captivating environment by utilizing the well-maintained trail that loops around the lake, spanning a distance of 2.5 miles. The trail’s undulating terrain offers an elevation gain and loss of approximately 150 feet, providing hikers with an immersive and dynamic experience.
