First Lake Fishing – Your Ultimate Guide For Year-Round Fishing
First Lake, situated east of Old Forge, in the Fulton Chain of Lakes in Herkimer County and surrounded by the town of Webb, is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Covering a surface area of 636 acres, First Lake holds the distinction of being the initial lake in the Fulton Chain.
The Adirondack Park’s Fulton Chain of Lakes forms a network of interconnected water bodies that enhance the overall fishing opportunities for all fishermen from beginners to experts. First Lake, with its mean depth of 13 feet and a maximum depth of 59 feet offers anglers a more accessible fishing setting compared to its deeper counterparts.
Fishing on First Lake provides anglers an opportunity to target a variety of fish species for a in all four seasons. The lake is home to Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, northern pike, tiger musky, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, rainbow smelt, rock bass, and brown bullhead. This diverse range of species caters to different preferences and skill levels, ensuring that anglers have ample opportunities for a rewarding catch.
In the town of Webb, surrounding First Lake, fishermen can enjoy the local amenities and welcoming communities that enhance their fishing excursions. With its strategic location in the Fulton Chain of Lakes, fishing First Lake provides an inviting destination for anglers eager to explore the beauty of Herkimer County.
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Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
In the early months of spring around 1st Lake in the Fulton Chain, dedicated anglers target the prized lake trout. As the water temperatures begin to rise, these cold-water species become more active. Anglers often employ trolling techniques using flashy spoons or deep-diving crankbaits to cover more water and entice strikes from the cruising trout.
Focusing on rocky structures, drop-offs, and submerged points can increase the chances of encountering lake trout. Live bait enthusiasts find success using smelt or shiners, strategically presenting them at various depths to tempt the lake trout lurking in the cooler waters.
Summer (June to August)
As the temperature rises during the summer months, fishing on First Lake undergoes a dynamic shift, attracting fishermen in pursuit of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, perch, and sunfish. Largemouth and smallmouth bass fishermen often gravitate toward the strategic game of angling around docks, which provides cover for these predatory fish species.
Utilizing artificial baits, such as plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures, fishermen attempt to trigger aggressive bass strikes. The technique involves precise casting and adeptly working the lure near dock structures where bass commonly seek shelter and ambush prey.
For those setting their sights on larger species, particularly lake trout, advanced tools like downriggers and lead-core lines become indispensable. Downriggers, Dipsy Divers, and Jet Divers, allow fishermen to precisely control the depth of their lures and target specific depths where lake trout might be holding.
Meanwhile, lead-core or copper-core lines or simply weighted lines provide an alternative method for reaching desired depths, allowing 1st Lake fishermen the ability to explore the thermocline where lake trout often linger during the warmer months.
Trolling remains a favored method for summer lake trout fishing on 1st Lake. Using flashy, large spoons as trolling lures attracts the discerning lake trout. Varied depths should be explored, as lake trout might exhibit different behavior at different levels in the water.
To enhance success, anglers should experiment with different retrieval or trolling speeds, mimicking the erratic movements of injured prey. When casting, the incorporation of occasional pauses in the lure’s presentation adds a realistic touch, encouraging strikes from the lake trout prowling the depths of 1st Lake.
Fall (September to November)
Fall signals a return to lake trout prominence in First Lake. Fishermen looking to capitalize on the trout’s increased activity can employ vertical jigging techniques using heavy jigs or spoons. Paying attention to the water temperature and adjusting the jigging depth accordingly is crucial during this season.
Trolling remains effective, with the focus shifting to shallower areas as the lake cools. Techniques like “snap-jigging” – a swift upward rod motion followed by a controlled fall – can trigger aggressive strikes from lake trout.
Winter (December to February)
Ice fishing enthusiasts brave the frozen surface of First Lake during the winter months to fish for lake trout. Drilling holes strategically in areas with varying depths, anglers use tip-ups with live bait such as smelt or minnows. Tip-ups are set at different depths to cover the water column and increase the chances of attracting the roaming lake trout.
Jigging with lures that mimic injured baitfish, such as tube jigs or blade baits, proves effective in enticing these cold-water fish. Ice fishermen must stay vigilant, using fish finders to locate trout and adjusting their setups accordingly.
What First Lake is Known For
The first lake in the Fulton Chain of Lakes is aptly named “First Lake” or sometimes “1st Lake”. This lake, situated in the Adirondack Park near Old Forge, marks the beginning of the famous 16-mile Fulton Chain. The waterway stretches continuously from First Lake to Fifth Lake, with First, Second, and Third Lakes forming one long lake separated by narrow straits. With a hard surface launch in Inlet, Fourth Lake, at its southwestern end, connects to Third Lake through a short navigable channel called the Narrows.
Amidst the breathtaking scenery, the lakes’ hidden coves stand out as coveted locations for bass enthusiasts. These sheltered spots not only add an element of excitement to fishing the Fulton Chain of Lakes but also contribute to the overall charm of First Lake, offering a perfect balance between natural serenity and the thrill of fishing in the Adirondacks.
The Fulton Chain of Lakes holds historical significance, as it was part of Robert Fulton’s proposed Adirondack canal, linking the lakes and creating a navigable water route. First Lake, along with the other lakes in the chain, offers excellent opportunities for various recreational activities, including paddling, boating, camping, fishing, and hiking.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
A convenient access point for launching boats or engaging in ice fishing on First Lake is the public boat launch situated along Route 28. Boaters can benefit from a well-maintained launch facility, ensuring a seamless transition into the expansive waters of First Lake.
For those seeking an alternative entry, Morrow Point Road stands out as a promising access point. Another viable point to explore First Lake is along the South Shore Road. Whether you’re launching canoes and kayaks during the warmer months or trying your luck at ice fishing in winter, South Shore Road is a great point to find versatile access to the lake.
While navigating the channels connecting the various lakes in the Fulton Chain, caution is advised in the winter. These channels, while offering access, may have varying ice conditions due to currents and springs. Exercise prudence and stay informed about current conditions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
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