Lake Trout – Preferred Temperature, Depth, Water Profile, More

Lake trout are sought after by fisherman in New York State due to their elusive nature. These tips and tricks, gathered from local anglers, will help you have a successful Lake trout fishing trip.

Habitat – Depth, Temperature, Water Profile & Movement

Lake trout prefer:

Deep lakes – usually around 15 to 30 feet.
The temperature should be cool, but not too cold. The ideal water temperature for lake trout fishing is usually around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Choose an oxygen-rich lake with clear still or slow-moving water.

Best Lures

There are a few different brands of lures that are known to be effective for catching lake trout in NY. Some of the best include Rapala, Strike King, and Berkley. Each company makes a variety of lures in different sizes and colors, so you can experiment to see what works best in your particular situation. Using weights or diving devices will help you get your lure down deep enough to reach lake trout.

Rapala Lures

The Rapala Shad Rap is a great lure for catching lake trout. It is available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can experiment to see what works best in your particular situation. The Shad Rap features a diving lip that allows it to reach depths of up to 20 feet, making it ideal for fishing in deep water. It also has a slow-rolling action that is irresistible to lake trout.

Another great Rapala lure for catching lake trout is the Rapala Countdown. This lure is available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can experiment to see what works best in your particular situation. The Countdown features a lip that allows it to dive down to depths ranging from 1-3′ (CD01 model) to 9-13′ (CD11 model).

Strike King Lures

The Strike King Strike King Mr. Crappie Slabalicious is a great lure for catching lake trout. It is available in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can experiment to see what works best in your particular situation. The Shadalicious features a swimming action that is irresistible to lake trout.

Berkley Gulp!

The Berkley Gulp! Minnow is a great lake trout lure. It is available in a variety of sizes and colors. The minnow features a lifelike design that is irresistible to lake trout. It also has a scent that attracts fish, making it even more effective.

Another great Berkley lure for catching lake trout is the Berkley Gulp! Worm. This lure is also available in a variety of sizes and colors. The worm features a lifelike design that lake trout love as well as a powerfully effective sent.

Live Bait

Minnow fishing is a great way to target lake trout. Minnows can be fished live or dead.
Night crawlers are another good option for live bait, and can be fished in a similar manner to minnows.
Round gobies are another live bait that can be used for lake trout. Gobies are small fish that are native to freshwater lakes and streams. They can be fished live or dead, and are often used as bait for other fish as well.

Tackle

Select the proper tackle for the job. Spinning rods and reels are a good choice for lake trout.

Selecting The Right Line

Monofilament fishing line is a good choice for lake trout fishing. Eight to 12 pound test is appropriate for most situations.

Best Sinkers

There are a few different types of sinkers that can be used for lake trout fishing. The type of sinker you use will depend on the depth of water you are fishing in and the size of the fish you are targeting.

Some of the most common types of sinkers used for lake trout fishing include:

Split shot sinkers: These sinkers are small and can be attached to the line above the hook. They are typically used in shallow water or when targeting smaller fish.
Egg sinkers: Egg sinkers are larger than split shot sinkers and are typically used in deeper water. They can also be attached to the line above the hook.

Where to Fish in For Lake Trout In New York State

One of the best places to find lake trout in New York State is in the Finger Lakes region. The Finger Lakes are located between Syracuse, Rochester and Elmira-Corning New York (part of Upstate NY). New York’s finger lakes consist of a series of 11 long, narrow lakes including: Canadice Lake, Cayuga Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Conesus Lake, Hemlock Lake, Honeoye Lake, Keuka Lake, Otisco Lake, Owasco Lake, Seneca Lake, and Skaneateles Lake.

Other good spots for catching lake trout in New York State include any number of oligotrophic lakes: Indian Lake, Cranberry Lake, The Great Lakes (Lake Erie and Lake Ontario), Tupper Lake, Lake George, Piseco Lake, Regis Canoe Area, and Ashokan Reservoir.

Early Spring and Fall Fishing

The best time of year to catch lake trout in New York is during the spring and fall. The water temperatures are cooler during these times of year, which is when lake trout are most active. Fishing in the early morning or late evening hours will increase your chances of success as well.

How Big Do Lake Trout get in New York?

Lake trout are big fish. The average size of a lake trout in New York State is about 20 inches. However, they can grow to be much larger. The state record for the biggest lake trout caught in New York is 43 pounds, 8 ounces! So, if you’re hoping to catch a big one, you’ll definitely want to head to New York State for your next fishing trip.

Summary

Remember to be patient and persistent when fishing for lake trout. They are a notoriously elusive fish, so it may take some time to get a bite. However, with these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a successful trip. Good luck