Keep Your Boat in the Water: The Case for Fall Fishing on Lake Ontario
As the summer season wraps up and anglers wrap up their successful salmon fishing trips in Lake Ontario, many charter captains start to think about pulling their boats and winterizing them for the colder months. However, Captain Ryan Williamson, a seasoned charter captain based in Sodus Bay, offers a different perspective: “Don’t take that boat out too early! Instead, try your luck with lake fishing in the fall.”
An Argument for Continued Fall Fishing
“Fishing in the fall can be just as rewarding as in the spring,” Captain Williamson explains. While the onset of hunting season, shifting weather patterns, and the exhaustion of a long fishing season may deter some captains from hitting the water, he believes that autumn fishing on Lake Ontario offers exceptional opportunities that shouldn’t be missed.
Having fished Lake Ontario since he was 12 years old—when he served as a mate for various captains in Sodus Point—Williamson has amassed over 15 years of experience in professional chartering. His deep understanding of trout and salmon behavior, coupled with his extensive knowledge of local waters, positions him as an authority on fall fishing.
Throughout the spring and summer, Williamson typically trolls the waters around river mouths in Wayne County. However, as September arrives, he shifts his focus westward, targeting the Genesee River. This river is one of the largest tributaries flowing into Lake Ontario and serves as a significant draw for autumn king salmon.
The Benefits of Fall Fishing
In the fall, fish are often more aggressive as they prepare for the winter months. With cooler water temperatures and the changing environment, both trout and salmon can be found in abundance, making it an excellent time for anglers to capitalize on these prime fishing conditions. Additionally, the reduced boat traffic and the stunning fall foliage add to the overall experience of being on the water.
Captain Williamson encourages anglers to take advantage of the fall season, emphasizing that the potential for trophy fish is higher than many might expect. With the right strategies and equipment, you can enjoy a productive day on Lake Ontario even as the temperatures drop.
So, before you consider hauling out your boat, think twice. The fall season offers some of the best fishing of the year—making it well worth the time spent on the water.
Less Fishing Pressure on the Lake
While many anglers are drawn to the streams during the fall, Captain Ryan Williamson remains dedicated to fishing the waters of Lake Ontario. “The fish are concentrated at the Genesee River because of the water flow,” Williamson explains. “During this time, the salmon, browns, and steelhead are all staging in anticipation of their seasonal movements. I’ll be out here fishing during the first two weeks of October.”
This period offers distinct advantages for both the captain and his customers. With significantly reduced boat traffic, anglers can enjoy a more serene experience on the water. “My customers appreciate the cooler weather and the peace that comes with it,” he adds. The stunning autumn scenery, characterized by vibrant fall foliage, creates a picturesque backdrop for their fishing excursions. “Fishing close to shore allows us to take in the beautiful colors of New York,” Williamson notes.
However, while he appreciates the autumn landscape, the captain isn’t merely out for a leisurely day of “leaf peeping.” He’s on a focused mission to target salmon and employs specific strategies to maximize success during this prime fishing season.
Fall Setup and Presentation
Planer Boards
In the fall, Captain Williamson employs the same tactics he uses in spring fishing by running planer boards. “I maintain a trolling speed between 2.5 and 3 miles per hour, utilizing J-Plugs, Big Rebels, and Bombers,” he explains. These larger stickbaits are crucial for stimulating action in the water. Since the staging king salmon tend not to feed aggressively during this time, creating instinctive bites becomes essential. By using planer boards, he can spread his lines out and cover more water, increasing his chances of attracting these less-active fish.
Downrigger with Spoons
In addition to planer boards, Williamson also incorporates shallow-water downrigger setups, employing a variety of spoons. “I often pull a ton of Michigan Stingers and Dreamweaver Super Slims,” he notes. To target steelhead specifically, he recommends using red or red-orange spoons. The versatility of downriggers allows for precise depth control, which is vital for adapting to the ever-changing behavior of fish in autumn.
Williamson emphasizes that every day presents unique challenges when it comes to the autumn bite. “Stick with what works in terms of setup, specific depth, and bait,” he advises. “Once you find what they want, stay with it.” This adaptability is key to a successful day on the water.
Targeting Stained Water
Another effective strategy for locating fish during the fall is to target stained water. “If you find mudlines, fish them just like you would during early spring,” Williamson suggests. The fish remain in the lake during late autumn, and while salmon can be moody due to their aggressive bite routine, fishing in stained water can lead to productive days. “You may need to adjust your tactics,” he notes, “but with persistence and the right approach, you can still have a successful outing.”
Steelhead and Browns
Captain Williamson emphasizes that anglers should not overlook the opportunities for steelhead and brown trout during the autumn months. “Autumn fishing for feeding browns and steelhead can be the best of the year,” he asserts. Even after stowing away his 31-foot North Coast, Williamson remains committed to his passion for fishing. “I have an 18-foot Starcraft that I’ll launch late in the season,” he shares with a smile. “It’s not really for any customers; I do it for myself.”
No Boat Necessary
For those without a boat, Williamson reassures anglers that catching late-season trout and salmon from Lake Ontario is still very much possible. “You can fish from the piers,” he advises. “Most of the bays or harbors along the south shore of Lake Ontario have extended piers where fish are often concentrated in the channels.” This accessibility allows anglers of all levels to enjoy the thrill of fishing without the need for a boat.
Fishing for the big bruisers in September and October doesn’t always require stream angling. “Give the lake an extra week or two,” Williamson suggests. “You have all winter to wade the riverbanks.” This approach not only diversifies your fishing opportunities but also allows you to experience the excitement of autumn fishing in different environments.
To contact Ryan Williamson:
For more expert advice or to book a charter, reach out to Captain Ryan Williamson:
Fishin Magician
Captain Ryan Williamson
Original Article By Chris Kenyon
About The Author
Chris Kenyon has been an outdoor columnist for the Sodus Record-Sun and the Finger Lakes Times and freelances for several publications. He has also been a member of NYSOWA and AGLOW. He has worked as the Outdoor Recreational Coordinator for Wayne County Tourism. Contact Kenyon at ckenyonrun@gmail.com.
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.
