As the crisp winter air settles in and outdoor sporting goods stores begin displaying ice shanties, jigging poles, and vibrant jigs, it’s a clear sign that the ice fishing season is near. Central Lake Ontario, celebrated for its world-class ice fishing, beckons anglers of all experience levels. Recently, even before the first ice forms, stores have started showcasing ice fishing gear as early as Labor Day, a trend that mirrors the accelerated merging of seasonal preparations in retail.
Best Lake Ontario Ice Fishing Spots
Early ice areas in western New York can be predicted, although not with a solid ice guarantee when it comes to Lake Ontario ice fishing. Historically certain sections of bays and lakes will freeze first because of shallower water or protection from the prevailing wind. Get rid of the wind, drop the air temperature into the teens, and the ice making machine goes to work. Anyone attempting to fish after the first few freezes had best use caution. Early ice is never uniform in thickness.
Among seasoned ice anglers, the phrase “The guys are on Braddock’s Bay—there’s three inches” is a familiar announcement marking the unofficial start of the ice fishing season. Situated just west of Rochester in Monroe County, Braddock’s Bay is renowned for having the region’s first safe ice every year. This reliable early freeze, combined with the bay’s excellent perch fishing, makes it a magnet for hard-water enthusiasts.
The bay’s shallow, protected waters allow it to freeze quickly, often ahead of other locations on Lake Ontario. However, anglers venturing onto early ice should always prioritize safety by checking ice thickness frequently and carrying essential safety gear.
Located just east of Braddock’s Bay, the four-mile-long Irondequoit Bay is another hotspot for early ice fishing. The northeast corner, shielded from Lake Ontario’s persistent winds, is often the first section to develop safe ice. Here, the shallow waters—typically four to six feet deep—reach a uniform freezing point of 32°F faster than the deeper areas, drawing early-season anglers.
This corner is a haven for perch fishing, with consistent catches of these prized panfish. Additionally, brown trout can be pulled through the ice, adding excitement for those seeking variety. The seasonal removal of the bridge at the bay’s outlet provides easy access to prime fishing spots from the east, west, or south.
Sodus Bay, the largest embayment in Wayne County connected to Lake Ontario, offers an expansive and diverse ice fishing experience. Its size can be intimidating for first-time winter anglers, but with a bit of guidance, this destination promises a rewarding outing.
Start your exploration on the east side of LeRoy Island, traditionally the first area to develop safe ice. This spot is particularly popular for targeting trophy-sized northern pike. Anglers often set up tip-ups baited with shiners, dropping them to depths of 12–18 feet to lure these predatory fish. Bluegill enthusiasts will also find success here early in the season with small jigs.
Just south of LeRoy Island, the area near Connelly’s Cove offers excellent opportunities for perch and bluegill. In water depths of four to five feet, anglers using chartreuse tear-drop jigs tipped with spikes or perch eyes can expect consistent action.
As the season advances, the dynamics on Sodus Bay shift. Perch, which initially gather in shallow waters, migrate to deeper areas. Anglers typically follow the fish, drilling holes in depths of 18–20 feet. Pike, on the other hand, remain near weed edges throughout the season.
Fishing activity is highly visible in Sodus Bay, with shanties and anglers clustering in productive areas. For those new to the bay, following the crowd can often lead to success. Popular spots, such as those near Cutters restaurant on Lake Bluff Road, are known for consistent perch action later in the season.
LeRoy Island, located at the north end of Sodus Bay, is one of three islands in the area and a prime spot for early ice fishing. The east side of the island traditionally develops the first safe ice, drawing anglers eager to kick off the season. Although parking is limited, anglers can typically find spaces at the end of LeRoy Island Road, accessible from Lake Bluff Road.
LeRoy Island is a hotspot for trophy-sized northern pike. Anglers often set up tip-ups in wide patterns, baiting with shiners placed at the bottom in 12–18 feet of water. The reward? Hard-fighting pike that make for thrilling catches. Early in the season, bluegills also make an appearance, providing a fun and consistent option for anglers of all skill levels.
However, anglers should exercise caution: ice thickness around the island can vary due to a slight current. Carrying a spud bar to test the ice is essential, especially during the early season when conditions can be unpredictable.
Just south of LeRoy Island lies another prime fishing zone, particularly for perch and bluegill. Anglers will find excellent opportunities straight out from Connelly’s Cove Restaurant, where shallow waters ranging from four to five feet deep hold abundant panfish.
For best results:
This area is a favorite for anglers seeking not only consistent action but also the delicious rewards these fish provide.
As the ice fishing season progresses, fish behavior changes, and successful anglers adjust their tactics accordingly.
When choosing where to drill your holes and set up your ice fishing huts, keep these principles in mind:
By staying mobile and adapting to the fish’s seasonal patterns, anglers can continue to enjoy productive outings on the ice.
In the tightly-knit ice fishing community, word spreads quickly when the fish are biting. As the season progresses and fish shift to new locations, clusters of ice fishing huts and shanties mark the most productive areas. One of the notable gathering spots is further south along Lake Bluff Road near the restaurant Cutters. Here, perch are often found in 18–20 feet of water, making it a favorite haunt for seasoned anglers.
The bait of choice remains the trusty jig, but many anglers also set up tip-down rigs baited with perch minnows, suspending them just off the bottom. When the perch start striking tip-downs, the ice becomes a flurry of activity as anglers race to their setups, sliding across the surface to reel in their catch.
East Bay, the smallest embayment in the county, may not attract large crowds, but it offers excellent opportunities for anglers seeking quality bluegill and perch fishing. This secluded bay, with its small channel typically closed during winter, becomes a haven for perch migrating in from Lake Ontario. Once they settle in for the ice season, they stay put, creating reliable fishing opportunities for those willing to explore its quiet waters.
Accessing East Bay is straightforward: head to Chimney Bluffs State Park, take a right onto East Bay Road, and the bay will be directly in front of you. For those who enjoy less crowded fishing spots, this hidden gem offers a rewarding experience.
Port Bay
Port Bay, a small 500 acre embayment, will have first ice at the south end. Historically there is plenty of mud resembling a tide-out situation usually associated with the mudflats of Cape Cod. Precipitation will usually fill the big pond. The fishing access road at the south end of the bay is plowed during the winter months, providing an easy walk for most ice fishermen.
In neighboring Cayuga County, Blind Sodus Bay and Fair Haven offer exceptional early-season fishing opportunities. The shallow southern ends of both bays freeze over first, attracting anglers eager for bluegill action. Northern pike also roam these areas, providing an additional challenge for those seeking larger game fish.
One legendary tale from Blind Sodus Bay recounts a massive northern pike with a 24-inch girth being pulled through an ice hole. The catch was so large that the angler had to enlarge the hole to land the fish, highlighting the potential for trophy-sized pike in this region.
For detailed ice conditions and weekly updates, consider contacting the following resources:
These resources can provide insights into ice thickness, fishing reports, and additional tips for planning a successful ice fishing trip in the Central Lake Ontario region.
Chris Kenyon is an outdoor columnist for the Sodus Record-Sun and The Finger Lakes Times and freelances for several publications. He is a member of NYSOWA and AGLOW. He is also the Outdoor Recreational Coordinator for Wayne County Tourism.
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