The Abundance of Bass in Adirondack Waters
While the Adirondacks have long been celebrated for their exceptional trout and salmon fisheries, the region’s rich bass populations remain largely untapped. Adirondack waters are home to a significant number of bass, many of which grow to impressive sizes, making them a thrilling target for anglers. With a variety of lakes, rivers, and ponds, the Adirondacks offer ample opportunities to explore and catch bass. So, how can anglers effectively catch bass during the summer months?
Smallmouth vs. Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth bass thrive in cooler ponds, lakes, and rivers, often found alongside trout in northern waters. They are typically more active during the day, making them an exciting catch for anglers willing to explore deeper waters and rocky structures. In contrast, largemouth bass prefer warmer, weed-laden environments that typically do not support trout. They often inhabit shallow bays and areas with abundant cover, such as lily pads and submerged logs. Understanding these habitat preferences is key to targeting each species effectively.
Bass are America’s most sought-after game fish, with one in three anglers targeting largemouth bass. Smallmouth bass ranks as the third most popular species nationwide. Despite this popularity, bass remain one of the most underutilized natural resources in the Adirondacks. Many anglers focus primarily on trout and salmon, overlooking the exhilarating fishing opportunities that bass provide in these beautiful waters.
Bronzeback Fish
Smallmouth bass, often called “Bronzeback Fish,” are widespread throughout the Adirondacks and are known for their striking coloration and aggressive behavior. These fish are not only fun to catch but are also recognized for their remarkable fighting abilities. Anglers can expect an energetic battle as they leap and shake their heads to shake off the hook. In contrast, largemouth bass, referred to as “hogs,” tend to battle from the bottom, using their weight and strength to resist being reeled in. Understanding the behavioral differences between these species can help anglers refine their techniques.
Although many anglers practice catch-and-release to promote sustainable fishing, bass also make for excellent meals. Their firm, flaky meat is highly regarded, and taking home a few for dinner won’t negatively impact the resource. As an Adirondack visitor in the 1880s noted, “There are few, if any, more palatable freshwater fish…breaded, seasoned, and fried, they are difficult to resist.” This sentiment remains true today, as many anglers enjoy the culinary rewards of their catch.
When is the Best Time to Fish for Bass?
There’s never a bad time to fish for bass, but some days are certainly better than others. Factors such as weather conditions, water temperature, and time of day can significantly influence bass activity. Many anglers find that early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for catching bass, as they are often more aggressive and willing to strike during these cooler parts of the day. Additionally, fishing after a rain can stir up activity as bass move to shallower waters in search of food.
Bass fishing can be particularly exciting during the summer when trout and salmon become less active due to warmer water temperatures. During these months, bass are often more aggressive, providing some of the most thrilling angling experiences. Techniques such as topwater fishing and using heavy cover can yield fantastic results, allowing anglers to showcase their skills and enjoy the thrill of the catch.
Fishing for Bass in New York State
In New York, anglers can fish for bass year-round on a catch-and-release basis using artificial lures only. This regulation helps maintain healthy fish populations while still allowing for year-round fishing enjoyment. However, many counties in the North Country, including Franklin, Clinton, Hamilton, and St. Lawrence, do not offer a catch-and-release season. It’s important for anglers to familiarize themselves with local regulations to ensure compliance and protect these valuable resources.
Regular Bass Season
The regular bass fishing season opens on the third Saturday in June and runs through November 30. This opening date usually coincides with Father’s Day weekend, which is also the date of the annual Free Fishing Weekend, allowing anglers to fish New York State waters without a license. This weekend is a great opportunity for families and novice anglers to experience the joy of fishing and learn about the diverse aquatic ecosystems in the Adirondacks.
With such a rich variety of bass fishing opportunities, the Adirondacks present a unique and exciting destination for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of catching a smallmouth in a serene lake or the fight of a largemouth in a weed bed, the Adirondacks are sure to deliver unforgettable fishing experiences.
Tips and Techniques for the Best Bass Fishing in the Adirondacks
Bass fishing in the Adirondacks can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you understand how environmental factors influence their behavior. Since bass are highly susceptible to changes in barometric pressure, I have found that fishing just before an approaching low-pressure system often yields the best results. During this time, bass tend to be more active and willing to bite, making it an excellent opportunity for anglers.
How to Catch Bass in the Summer: Productive Opportunities
Knowing when and how to catch bass in the summer can lead to extremely productive fishing outings. One effective technique involves using topwater offerings, such as topwater lures and poppers, particularly when the water’s surface is flat and calm, often just before a storm. These conditions create an ideal environment for bass to strike at the surface, providing exciting action as they leap and splash.
In addition to pre-storm conditions, early morning and late afternoon outings are typically the most fruitful. During these cooler parts of the day, bass are more active and willing to chase after bait. Furthermore, many anglers find that bass feed heavily after dark, making nighttime fishing a viable option. Using darker lures or those that create noise can be especially effective during these hours, as they help attract fish in low-light conditions.
What Do Largemouth Bass Prefer?
Largemouth bass thrive in warmer waters that are often inhospitable to trout, making them a popular target for anglers in the Adirondacks. They can be found in shallow ponds as well as deeper waters of lakes, where they seek out heavy vegetation such as weeds and thick cover like lily pads. This vegetation provides shelter and ambush points for the bass as they hunt for prey.
In addition to vegetation, largemouth bass are often found near suspended structures such as submerged trees, stumps, and rocky shorelines. These areas offer ample opportunities for bass to hide and strike at unsuspecting baitfish. When targeting largemouth bass, consider using soft plastics, jigs, or crankbaits that mimic the movement of prey in these environments.
What Do Smallmouth Fish Prefer?
Smallmouth bass prefer the cooler waters of lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams throughout the Adirondacks. They coexist easily with trout in many bodies of water, creating a unique fishing experience for those targeting both species. In warmer conditions, smallmouth bass can also be found alongside pike, pickerel, walleye, and perch.
Smallmouth bass tend to favor drop-offs and rocky shelves where they can ambush prey while remaining hidden from larger predators. These areas are ideal for casting lures that mimic natural baitfish, such as shad or minnows. Techniques like jigging or using hard baits that can navigate through rocky structures are effective ways to attract smallmouth bass.
By understanding the preferences and behaviors of both largemouth and smallmouth bass, anglers can enhance their fishing techniques and improve their chances of a successful outing in the beautiful waters of the Adirondacks.
They can be found in many Adirondack rivers, and action can be outstanding, especially during the summer near rapids and waterfalls where the turbulence pumps oxygen into the water. Bass often responds like a football player that’s been on the bench wearing an oxygen mask. They are also voracious surface feeders that provide excellent opportunities for top water offerings such as:
- Poppers
- Flies
- Chuggers
- Rubber frogs
- And buzz baits
Bass responds well to a variety of best lures, baits, and jigs. They can also provide extraordinary action on a fly rod both below the surface with streamer flies or on the top water with poppers.
How to Catch Bass in the Summer
Bass fishing is commonly done using various lures, including rubber worms, jigs, spinners, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. However, bass can’t resist natural offerings such as live minnows, fresh crayfish, or nightcrawlers fished on a bobber. When bass are actively hunting, they will attack nearly anything that crosses their path.
Soft plastics, particularly Senko worms and their imitations, are particularly effective in attracting bass. Rigged on a number 2 offset hook, Senkos are easy to cast, even without added weight. Bass love them due to their realistic movement and presentation. To use them effectively, simply cast them out and watch the coils in your line. When the line becomes taut or starts moving sideways, reel in the slack and set the hook firmly. Then, prepare for an exhilarating fight!
A visiting bass pro once remarked, “These things (Senkos) ought to be illegal because, with one of them, any old idiot can catch a big mess of bass.” This highlights the effectiveness of this bait and its popularity among anglers.
For my bass fishing setup, I prefer using a relatively stiff rod measuring between 6 ½ to 7 ½ feet paired with an open-faced spinning reel spooled with 12 to 14-pound test monofilament line. Having a strong rod is essential for controlling the fish and pulling them out of heavy cover, such as brush, weeds, or rocky structures.
The Joy of Bass Fishing in the Adirondacks
President Herbert Hoover, who spent summer fishing on Osgood Pond during his presidency, once claimed,
“Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers.”
Fishing provides a respite from the regular routine, and it offers us an opportunity to escape the numerous electronic gadgets and games that vie for attention in this digital age.
Recommended Locations for the Best Bass Fishing in the Adirondacks
The Adirondacks are home to numerous rivers that provide excellent bass fishing opportunities. Among these, the Saranac River and Raquette River stand out for their diverse habitats and abundant bass populations. The Hudson River and Grasse River also offer great spots for anglers seeking both smallmouth and largemouth bass. Additionally, the Indian River and Schroon River are known for their scenic views and productive fishing grounds, while the Sacandaga River and Lows Lake – Bog River Flow provide unique environments that attract bass in significant numbers.
In addition to rivers, the Adirondacks boast several fantastic lakes that are ideal for bass fishing. Lake Champlain is particularly renowned for its size and diversity of fish species, including impressive bass. Other noteworthy lakes include Lake Lila, Long Lake, and Chazy Lake, each offering unique fishing experiences amidst stunning natural scenery. The Saranac Chain of Lakes and Raquette Lake are also popular among anglers for their accessibility and productive waters. Forked Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, Little Tupper Lake, and the Fulton Chain of Lakes further enhance the region’s reputation as a premier bass fishing destination.
Original Article By Joe Hackett
About The Author
Joe Hackett is a licensed guide and owner/operator of Tahawus Ltd, a year-round Adirondack guide service. He regularly writes columns in several Adirondack newspapers and freelances for many outdoor publications.
This article has been revised by Daniel O’Neill, an experienced angler and writer, to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. As a result, it may no longer reflect the original author’s views or intentions.
