DeRuyter Reservoir, reservoir in New York (state)
DeRuyter Reservoir is a large lake covering more than 550 acres with a maximum depth of about 55 feet (17 meters) and a shoreline extending over 6 miles (10 kilometers). Dense plant growth lines much of the shore, especially in shallower areas up to about 12 feet (3.6 meters) deep, creating habitat for numerous fish species.
The reservoir was built to supply water to the historic Erie Canal, a major waterway that played a crucial role in regional trade and transportation. This water source became essential infrastructure that shaped the area's development during the canal era.
The reservoir takes its name from the nearby town of DeRuyter and has long been woven into the routines of local residents and visitors. Fishing remains a central activity here, reflecting how the lake continues to shape the rhythm of outdoor life in this rural area.
A boat launch is available at DeRuyter Lake General Store on South Lake Road for a fee, and staff can provide access details. Before venturing onto the ice during winter, check conditions carefully as the frozen surface can be thin or uneven in some areas.
Most walleye in the reservoir are older fish, with few young walleye appearing from stocking efforts, suggesting that released fingerlings struggle to survive at expected rates. This unusual pattern means that despite regular stocking programs, the majority of catchable walleye have grown there over many years rather than arriving recently.
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