Skip to main content

Wappinger Creek

Boat Ramps
2
Access Points
16
Species
18

Wappinger Creek is the longest stream in Dutchess County, New York, running approximately 42 miles from its origin at Thompson Pond in Pine Plains to its mouth at the Hudson River near New Hamburg. This scenic waterway flows through a diverse landscape, beginning in pristine headwaters before traversing through rocky terrain that gradually transforms into sandbars and marshes. At Wappingers Falls, the creek forms Wappinger Lake, a man-made reservoir. The creek is fed by several major tributaries including Cold Spring Creek, Hunns Lake Creek, Willow Brook, East Branch Wappinger Creek, and Little Wappinger Creek. Offering excellent fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers, Wappinger Creek provides a peaceful setting with clear, cool waters that support a variety of fish species. The picturesque surroundings make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both productive fishing and natural beauty.


Fish stocking schedule

Latest 5 stockings

  • Brown Trout525 fish · 13.4 inJune 2025
  • Brown Trout175 fish · 13.4 inJune 2025
  • Rainbow Trout2,370 fish · 9.0 inMay 2025
  • Brown Trout260 fish · 12.4 inMay 2025
  • Brown Trout90 fish · 12.4 inMay 2025

Source

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Updated Nov 13, 2026. Sizes are the length the agency reports. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.

Open stocking page, opens in new tab

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Wappinger Creek. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Wappinger Creek

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

New York licenses and regulations

New York Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the weblink below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

Learn more, opens in new tab

New York Fishing License

"You need a fishing license if you are 16 years and older and fishing for: -Freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups. -Frog species by spearing, catching with the hands, or by use of a club or hook. -Freshwater baitfish for personal use."

Learn more, opens in new tab

New York Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you to check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

Learn more, opens in new tab

New York Stream Access Laws

Public Fishing Rights (PFRs) are permanent easements purchased by NYSDEC from willing landowners, giving anglers the right to fish and walk along the bank (usually a 33' strip on one or both banks of the stream). This right is for the purpose of fishing only and no other purpose. Fishing privileges may be available on some other private lands with the permission of the landowner. Courtesy toward the landowner and respect for their property will ensure their continued use.

Learn more, opens in new tab

Take Wappinger Creek with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Wappinger Creek to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Wappinger Creek to find where and when fish are biting for you.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Wappinger Creek and check the forecast before you go.

WAPPINGER CREEK NEAR WAPPINGERS FALLS NY

Loading flow chart…
Latest
10 yr average

Explore New York waters

Smarter Fishing Starts in the App.

onWater Fish gives you everything you need to plan smarter, fish better, and own every trip from first cast to last.