Deep Pond is a glacial kettlehole pond located on the Schiff Scout Reservation in Wading River owned by the Theodore Roosevelt Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Access times are limited (see below). It is one of the few ponds on Long Island with a completely undeveloped shoreline.
Physical Features:
Elevation: 30 feet
Area: 32 acres
Shoreline Length: 0.81 miles
Maximum depth: 40 feet
County and Town: Suffolk County, Town of Riverhead
Access:
Access is through a cooperative agreement between the Theodore Roosevelt Council of the Boy Scouts of America and the NYSDEC.
Directions: Call 631-444-0280 for a copy of the directions and rules of use.
Restrictions:
Deep Pond is located in an active Boy Scout camp. Consequently, access is limited. The following special regulations apply, along with those noted above:
- Entry to Deep Pond is for fishing only.
- Public fishing is permitted during the period of September 15th to June 15th.
- Access is limited to sunrise to sunset Monday through Thursday and sunrise to 3 p.m. on Fridays.
- Anglers must park in designated spots.
- Boats and electric motors are permitted, but it is a 300 yard carry to the water.
- Gas motors are prohibited.
- Anglers must sign in and out at the Angler Sign-in Station prior to and after fishing.
A free 3-year Managed Land Access Permit is for entry into the pond Visit DEC's nForm page if you need information on how to obtain a NY.gov account, which is required for these permits. Only hand launched boats are permitted as are electric trolling motors. Anglers must sign in and out at the Angler Sign-in Station prior to and after fishing. For more information call the Region One Fisheries Unit at (631) 444-0280.
For more information on this launch including Google Maps driving directions, visit the Boat Launch Sites for Suffolk County page.
Fish Species:
Largemouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Pumpkinseed, Yellow Perch, Brown Trout (stocked), Rainbow Trout (stocked)
Fishing:
The pond offers excellent fishing for yellow perch and chain pickerel. Large individuals of both species are available to the persistent angler. Trout are stocked in the fall. The larger size of the trout helps prevent the chain pickerel from feeding on them. The trout offer a good late fall winter fishery. Some impressive holdover trout have been caught through the ice. Golden shiners and banded killifish are the primary baitfish in the pond.
Regulations:
Special Fishing Regulations Apply
Health Advice on Eating Fish You Catch:
Visit NYS Department of Health website for health advice on eating fish you catch.
Additional Information:
People requiring printed versions of the permit and/or map should contact the Region 1 Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries at (631) 444-0280.
