Cassadaga Lakes Fishing – Articles, Species, and Tips

In Chautauqua County, New York, the Cassadaga Lakes – Upper, Middle, and Lower – offer a prime fishing experience across their combined 217 acres. These lakes, located near the communities of Sinclairville, NY and Cassadaga, NY, present diverse fishing opportunities for fishermen of all skill levels. Upper Cassadaga Lake has two 35 foot holes in the northeastern corner of the lake. Middle Cassadaga Lake, the narrowest of the three lakes, has a maximum depth of 35 feet in the middle of the lake from north to south. Lower Cassadaga Lake is the deepest with depths reaching 50 feet in the main part of the lake.

These lakes host a variety of fish species in varied habitats including largemouth and smallmouth bass, muskellunge, walleye, northern pike, pumpkinseed, bluegill, black crappie brown bullhead, and yellow perch.

Cassadaga Creek and other contributing streams enhance the ecological variety of these lakes. Notable landmarks, such as the Lily Dale Swamp near Middle Lake and Lily Dale Shoal in Upper Cassadaga, add to the appeal of the area. The Cassadaga Lakes are more than just a fishing destination; they are a dynamic environment for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers alike, offering engaging fishing and natural beauty.

NY’s best fishing spots – read more.

Seasonal Fishing Overview

Spring (April-May)

Crappie and Panfish: In the shallows, especially near submerged structures and inlets, live minnows and bobbers are effective.

Bass Fishing: Smallmouth and largemouth bass are active in areas with vegetation and submerged structures. Topwater lures and jigs are recommended.

Musky: Start becoming active, often found in deeper sections of Upper Cassadaga, near Lily Dale Swamp.

Summer (June-August)

Bass: Dominant in deeper areas of Middle Cassadaga. Techniques include using spinnerbaits and deep-diving crankbaits.

Walleye: Found in deeper channels, especially where cooler water flows from tributaries. Trolling and jigging are effective.

Panfish: Active in all three lakes, particularly around docks, fallen trees, and weed beds.

Fall (September-October)

Musky: Peak activity near Lily Dale Shoal and deeper parts of Upper Cassadaga. Trolled large crankbaits are effective.

Walleye and Bass: Continue to feed actively, moving to shallower areas as water cools.

Scenic Views: Fall foliage around the lakes offers a stunning backdrop for fishing.

Winter (December-February)

Ice Fishing: Popular in sheltered coves and bays like Stump Bay.

Targeting crappie and panfish using tip-ups and jigs.

Safety: Ice thickness varies, so caution and safety gear are essential.

Fish Species and Habitats:

Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass

Habitats: Prefer weed beds, rocky shores, and submerged structures.

Techniques: Effective methods include using crankbaits, jigs, and topwater lures.

Musky

Habitats: Found in deeper areas of Upper Cassadaga, especially around Lily Dale Swamp and Shoal.

Techniques: Large crankbaits and trolling methods yield good results.

Walleye

Habitats: Roam open waters, often found near drop-offs and cooler water inflows.

Techniques: Trolling with crankbaits or drifting with nightcrawlers is effective.

Crappie & Panfish

Habitats: Thrive near structures like docks, fallen trees, and in shallow coves.

Techniques: Light tackle with live minnows or colorful jigs works best.

Unique Features and Regulations:

Cassadaga Lakes’ Ecosystem and Wildlife

Cassadaga Lakes host a variety of wildlife that interacts closely with the fish populations, creating a balanced and lively environment. Here’s how different animals contribute to this ecosystem:

Bald Eagles

Bald eagles, often spotted over the lakes, feed on fish. This helps keep the fish population in check and indicates plenty of fish for anglers.

Beavers

Beavers build dams, changing the water flow and creating new habitats. This can increase fish nursery areas and attract different fish species, offering anglers varied fishing spots.

Otters

Otters are excellent at catching fish and often target slower ones. They help maintain a healthy fish population by preying on the weaker fish.

Fish Populations

Larger fish like bass and muskie keep smaller fish populations under control. This balance is crucial for a healthy lake ecosystem.

Smaller fish and panfish provide food for bigger fish and other wildlife, adding to the ecosystem’s diversity.

Aquatic Plants and Insects:

Plants and insects in the lakes offer habitats and food for fish. Insects are especially important as they are a primary food source for many fish.

Seasonal Changes:

Spring brings new life with insects and spawning fish, attracting various birds and enhancing biodiversity. In the fall, fish migration and spawning can draw larger aquatic and avian predators.

The interaction between these elements makes Cassadaga Lakes a vibrant place for fishing and observing nature. For fishermen and nature lovers, understanding this ecosystem enriches the experience of visiting the lakes.

Middle Cassadaga Boat Launch

The NY Dec operates a boat launch on Glasgow Road at the northern end of Middle Cassadaga Lake. The launch has a hard surface ramp and a lot large enough to park 20 vehicles and trailers. Located near deeper waters, suitable for targeting muskie and walleye.