Basic Creek Reservoir, body of water
Basic Creek Reservoir is a body of water in Westerlo, New York, spanning roughly 265 acres with a shoreline stretching about 14 miles. The water serves as storage for Albany's water system while providing fishing opportunities for species including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and black crappie.
The reservoir was built between 1928 and 1932 by damming Basic Creek and flooding former farmland and forests. The project arose during a period of large-scale water infrastructure development across New York State to support Albany's growing population.
Visitors need a permit from the City of Albany to fish, with fishing allowed from dawn to dusk. The site has parking areas on both sides of Route 404, some wheelchair accessible, plus seasonal restrooms and picnic tables for day visitors.
The site is divided by a causeway that carries Route 404 across the water, serving as both a crossing and water flow control structure. The wetlands and wooded shoreline support diverse bird species and wildlife, making it a good spot for nature observation.
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