Cayuga Lake Fishing Seasons and Tips – Catch Trophy Fish
Cayuga Lake fishing is known for its populations of lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, chain pickerel, landlocked atlantic salmon, bass, panfish, northern pike and more. Whether trolling for trout or casting for bass, the opportunities presented by Cayuga Lake are as varied as the species that inhabit its waters.
Cayuga Lake, a prominent water body spanning an impressive 38 miles in length and reaching a maximum width of 3.5 miles, offers many options when fishing on Cayuga Lake. Situated across Tompkins, Cayuga, and Seneca Counties, this lake touches numerous towns, including Covert, Fayette, Genoa, Ithaca, Lansing, Ledyard, Ovid, Romulus, Seneca Falls, Springport, Ulysses, and Varick.
With an impressive maximum depth of 435 feet and a mean depth of 181 feet, Cayuga Lake stands as one of the deeper lakes in the region, offering a dynamic fishing environment. Cayuga Lake is not just an independent water body but a part of a broader interconnected network of lakes and rivers.
Its connection to nearby bodies of water enhances the fishing experience, providing opportunities for anglers to explore different ecosystems and fish species. When it comes to fishing in Cayuga Lake, anglers can target a variety of species.
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Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
In the spring, northern sections of Cayuga Lake, especially north of Long Point, become prime locations for lake trout fishing. As the lake begins to warm up, landlocked atlantic salmon, brown trout, northern pike, and rainbow trout become accessible in the southern third of Cayuga Lake.
Troll the southern part of Cayuga Lake for salmon, rainbow trout, lake trout, brown trout, and northern pike concentrating efforts from March through May and again in November and December. Rainbow trout fishing thrives during this period, providing excellent opportunities for fishermen jigging in the lake.
Brown trout numbers remain fair to good, with potential improvements in young brown trout populations. Early spring also marks the beginning of bass fishing, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass becoming active.
Summer (June to August)
Summer offers a range of fish species in Cayuga Lake. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass fishing start to pick up, presenting challenges and rewards for anglers.
With the presence of round goby, smallmouth bass in Cayuga Lake are reaching trophy sizes. Northern pike fishing might be more successful in the northern sections where vegetation tends to be better.
Chain pickerel, abundant at the north end, provides exciting sports throughout late spring and summer. Warm, windless days are ideal for fly fishing Longnose Gar, offering a unique angling experience. Bluegills and sunfish are readily available, and yellow perch, with their increasing size, are abundant.
Fall (September to November)
As fall unfolds, there is a noticeable shift in the behavior of bass and pike on Cayuga Lake. During this season, their activity undergoes a gradual transition, maintaining a relatively steady pace.
Fishermen will find that pickerel, particularly at the north end of the lake, continue to offer engaging sport, presenting a consistent and rewarding challenge. For those seeking yellow perch, strategic fishing near drop-offs and deeper structures proves effective.
This targeted approach allows anglers to capitalize on the perch’s positioning during the fall, enhancing the overall fishing experience. Additionally, autumn on Cayuga Lake spotlights brown trout as a focal point for late-season angling. This particular species provides exciting opportunities, drawing in those eager for varied and rewarding fishing pursuits.
Winter (December to February)
The onset of winter converts Cayuga Lake into a haven for ice-fishing enthusiasts. The spotlight during this chilly season falls on the lake’s predominant cold-water inhabitants – lake trout.
As temperatures drop, fishermen shift their focus to the northern part of the lake for successful ice fishing, where lake trout fishing becomes the focus. Winter also reveals the presence of yellow perch and bluegills, enticingly available and often at increased sizes. These species add an extra layer of excitement to winter ice fishing, offering fishermen diverse opportunities for successful catches beneath the frozen surface. Additionally, the elusive brown trout may present itself as an option for those seeking a unique winter fishing experience.
Monitoring ice thickness becomes a non-negotiable practice, ensuring the well-being of anglers as they navigate the ice on Cayuga Lake. With the right precautions in place, winter transforms this lake into a serene and rewarding fishing destination, drawing both seasoned fishermen and novices alike to partake in ice fishing on Cayuga Lake.
What Cayuga Lake is Known For
In a noteworthy fishing achievement, on June 15, 2022, Thomas Russell Jr. of Albion set a new New York State record for smallmouth bass at Cayuga Lake, Seneca County. The catch weighed eight pounds and six ounces, surpassing the previous record by two ounces, which was tied between fish caught on Lake Erie in 1995 and in the St. Lawrence River in 2016.
Smallmouth bass are renowned for their tenacious fights, and Cayuga Lake is recognized as an angler’s paradise, offering exceptional fishing opportunities. Mr. Russell’s accomplishment is part of DEC’s Angler Achievement Awards Program, showcasing state-record fish.
Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes, holds historical significance in local fishing. The lake’s interesting ecosystem and abundant fish populations have made it a favored destination for fishermen for generations.
Apart from its fishing allure, the local community surrounding Cayuga Lake offers an array of activities, events, and attractions. The area is home to beautiful parks, such as Allan H. Treman State Marine Park and Taughannock Falls State Park, where visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
Cayuga Lake Cruises provide an opportunity to explore the lake, offering public and private cruises with various themes. Restaurants like The Boatyard Grill at the southern end of the lake on Cayuga Inlet and Six Mile Creek and Glenwood Pines offer delicious dining experiences with stunning lake views. Additionally, the region hosts attractions like the School’s Out Charters for private cruises and various outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a hub for both locals and visitors seeking diverse activities and a taste of the Finger Lakes lifestyle.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Enthusiasts looking to access the water in Tompkins County have several options catering to both boaters and shore anglers. The Allan H. Treman State Marina, conveniently situated one mile north of the city of Ithaca on Route 89 along the Cayuga Lake Inlet, is equipped with a concrete ramp, pump-out facilities, and ample parking for 141 cars and trailers.
Boaters can enjoy a smooth launch experience while taking in the surroundings. Another accessible location is Taughannock Falls State Park, located eight miles north of Ithaca on Route 89. This park offers a concrete ramp, pump-out facilities, and parking for 16 cars and trailers, making it an ideal spot for a variety of water activities.
For those seeking a blend of boating and shore-based fishing experiences, Myers Point, situated at the Town of Lansing Park off Route 34B, is an excellent choice. Boaters can utilize the concrete ramp, while shore anglers can find accessible areas for fishing. This location provides a versatile setting, accommodating different preferences for enjoying the water.
