Sandy Pond, NY Fishing Handbook: Expert Tips for Every Season
Sandy Pond is located in Oswego and Jefferson Counties, New York. It is made up of North Sandy Pond with a max depth of 15 feet and Renshaw Bay at its northern end and South Sandy Pond with a max depth of 21 feet. Its varied depths create perfect habitats for species like largemouth bass [Link to the largemouth bass page – it is not live yet], northern pike, walleye, yellow perch, bowfin, and more. The pond’s wide array of fish is influenced by its connection to Lake Ontario [link sandy-pond-fishing-ny] to the lake ontario page the slug will be through a channel just west of Carl Island, making it an exciting spot for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
See all the best New York Fishing Spots
Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March – May)
Spring’s warmer temperatures draw bass and walleye to shallower waters. For bass, areas around submerged structures are hotspots. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics mimic the movement of their natural prey, increasing your chances of a catch. Walleye prefer cooler waters and can often be found at the edge of deeper areas. Trolling slowly with crankbaits and live minnows can be particularly effective as walleye move towards spawning areas.
Summer (June – August)
This season is ripe with fishing opportunities on both North and South Sandy Pond. Largemouth bass, often found near the surface, can be enticed with poppers and frog lures. Northern pike, lurking in deeper, cooler parts, respond well to jerkbaits and spoons. For walleye, try trolling along thermoclines where they often congregate. And for yellow perch, small jigs tipped with live bait near weed beds can lead to a successful day.
Fall (September – November)
Fall brings a feeding frenzy as fish prepare for winter. Largemouth bass are more aggressive, making swimbaits and large worms effective. For northern pike, target areas with less boat traffic where they hunt. Walleye, now moving to shallower waters, can be caught with crankbaits and nightcrawlers, especially during dusk and dawn.
Winter (December – February)
Ice fishing [link to the ice fishing page] transforms Sandy Pond into a winter fishing haven. Target northern pike and yellow perch using vibrant tip-ups baited with minnows and jigs tipped with live bait. Ice fisherman are often found near a 11-12 foot hole just south of the Elms Golf Course and Restaurant. Another popular ice fishing spot on North Sandy Pond, often thick with ice fishing shelters, can be found at the northern end of Ontario Avenue just out past the access point.
Remember, safety first: always check ice conditions before venturing out.
What Are North Sandy Pond & South Sandy Pond Known For?
Sandy Pond, with its trophy-sized largemouth bass, is perfect for anglers seeking a big catch. Boat fishing is another popular activity, with various rental options available around the pond. For more information see the NY DEC website.
