Hemlock Lake Fishing: Tips, Seasons, and Local Legends
Hemlock Lake’s salmonid fishery is a highlight for anglers, featuring lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and landlocked salmon. The presence of solid populations of smelt enhances the growth of trout and salmon, providing excellent conditions for a thriving fishing experience.
Other fish species found in Hemlock Lake include chain pickerel, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, sunfish, rock bass, black crappie, and yellow perch.
Hemlock Lake is a finger lake in New York State within Livingston and Ontario Counties, with the towns of Livonia and Canadice along its shores, offering a serene backdrop for fishing. Spanning a length of 7 miles with a maximum width of 0.5 miles and reaching a depth of 91 feet, this tranquil body of water provides an intimate and rewarding fishing experience.
Connected to the water network of the region, Hemlock Lake contributes to the ecological diversity of its surroundings. The lake’s maximum depth and size contribute to Hemlock Lake’s fishing environment, offering unique opportunities for boat angling.
The diverse array of species ensures that Hemlock Lake fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of challenges and rewards while exploring the scenic beauty of Hemlock Lake.
Additional NY Fishing Spots
Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
Spring brings increased activity among the bass population at Hemlock Lake, including both largemouth and smallmouth varieties. The rise in water temperature prompts these species to migrate to shallow areas for spawning.
Anglers can capitalize on this behavior by targeting strategic fishing locations near Hemlock Lake’s varied shoreline. Effective lures for spring bass fishing on Hemlock Lake include soft plastics, jerk baits, and spinnerbaits. Texas and Carolina’s rigs can be extremely advantageous for bass during spring.
Bluegill, another prominent species in the lake, also moves into shallows for spawning during this period. Anglers seeking bluegill success often utilize small jigs or live bait presented under a bobber.
Summer (June to August)
As summer progresses, bass behavior shifts in response to warmer water conditions. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass can be found in deeper waters or near underwater structures.
Topwater lures, crankbaits, and swimbaits become effective lures for enticing bass during this season. Additionally, catfish activity increases in the warmer months, making them a viable target. Anglers pursuing catfish commonly deploy baits such as cut bait or stink bait to attract these bottom-dwelling species.
Fall (September to November)
Fall marks a period of heightened activity for various fish species at Hemlock Lake. Largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing, once again, is active as bass feed in preparation for the approaching winter. Anglers should focus on fishing shoreline structures, employing a mix of lures such as jigs, crankbaits, and swimbaits to entice these feeding bass.
Northern pike, known for their aggressive behavior, may also exhibit increased activity during the fall months. Larger lures like spoons or spinners are effective in triggering strikes from northern pike.
Additionally, fall presents an opportunity to target walleye, especially during low-light periods. Live bait or crankbaits are commonly used to entice walleye during their fall feeding patterns.
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings unique challenges to fishermen, but for those dedicated to the pursuit, ice-fishing opportunities abound at Hemlock Lake. Panfish such as bluegill and perch are common targets during this season.
Anglers typically employ small jigs tipped with bait to entice these fish. Locating deeper areas where panfish congregate is crucial for successful ice fishing. Common bait choices include live bait such as waxworms, maggots, minnows, or synthetic bait options that offer realistic movements and scents.
Lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout fishing is also productive during winter. Specialized ice fishing gear such as augers, tip-ups, and jigs with live bait or artificial lures are commonly used.
Prior to venturing onto the ice, anglers must exercise caution and ensure the thickness of the ice is safe for fishing activities. A minimum recommended ice thickness for a single angler is typically around four inches, while larger groups or activities like ice fishing with equipment may require thicker ice. Anglers should consult local authorities, fishing guides, or experienced ice fishermen for current ice conditions and recommendations specific to Hemlock Lake ice fishing.
What Hemlock Lake is Known For
In 2015, angler Matt Buchheit of Rochester, along with his fishing buddy Andy Howk, made headlines with the potential capture of a “monster” walleye on Hemlock Lake, one of the western Finger Lakes in New York. The fish measured an impressive 36 inches in length, caught using a 4 1/2-inch lure.
Despite speculation that it could have challenged the state record of 16.9 pounds, Buchheit, lacking a scale on board, opted to release the fish unharmed. The current state record for a walleye is 34 inches, caught in 2009.
While some were skeptical, Buchheit stood by the accuracy of his measurements, emphasizing that he values catch-and-release practices. As for local historical fishing accomplishments in Hemlock Lake, the lake has been a vital water source for the City of Rochester for over a century.
Its virtually undeveloped shoreline provides a unique and pristine environment, contributing to its significance in the region’s fishing history. In the local community surrounding Hemlock Lake, popular activities include boating within the lake’s restrictions of less than 17-foot boat size and 10-horsepower motor limit.
The area offers hiking trails such as Rob’s Trail, showcasing the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Parks like the New York State DEC’s Hemlock-Canadice State Forest and Hemlock Lake Park provide recreational spaces with stunning views of the lake.
Local events, restaurants, and festivals contribute to the community’s vibrancy. Whether engaging in outdoor activities, enjoying scenic parks, or exploring historical sites, the community around Hemlock Lake offers a diverse range of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Accessing the serene waters of Hemlock Lake in Livingston County is made possible through public boat access points situated at the northeast and southeast corners. Located off Rix Road, the northeast corner features an unimproved access point with a gravel ramp, providing boaters with a gateway to the lake’s natural beauty.
Similarly, at the southeast corner off Route 15A, another unimproved access point with a gravel ramp awaits exploration enthusiasts. These gravel ramps offer straightforward launching options for both seasoned boaters and those looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
Travelers can refer to the NY-15A route along the east side of Hemlock Lake, with access roads leading to the park on the north end at Glenville.
Utilizing Google Maps can ensure a smooth journey to these key locations. However, it’s essential to note that specific regulations apply to Hemlock Lake. The New York State DEC specifies restrictions, making it unlawful to possess or operate a boat, ice fish, traverse the ice or water, or fish from shore on Hemlock Lake north of the northerly boat launch and between Boat Launch Road and Hemlock Lake. See NY DEC for details.
Hemlock and Canadice Lakes have specific regulations regarding vessel specifications. Non-mechanically propelled vessels must be less than 24 feet in length, while mechanically propelled vessels must be less than 17 feet, with motors restricted to 10 HP or less.
Furthermore, to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, users are advised to follow thorough equipment maintenance practices: check, clean, drain, dry, and disinfect. Environmental conservation measures also include refraining from cleaning, gutting, or depositing entrails within 100 feet of any water, ensuring the preservation of the lake’s ecosystem.
