Explore Third Lake Fishing: Seasons, Tips, & Historic Charm

The presence of Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, yellow perch, sunfish, lake trout, northern pike, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass on Third Lake in the Adirondack Mountains (ADK) ensures that fishermen have a rich selection of fishing options. Whether casting for trout or seeking the challenge of bass fishing, Third Lake provides a rewarding and diverse fishing experience, making it a gem within the Fulton Chain Lakes.

Third Lake, in the town of Webb, Herkimer County, is special among the Fulton Chain Lakes, offering a peaceful and diverse fishing experience. Covering a surface area of 230.55 acres, this lake is part of the Black River watershed and boasts an extensive 4.62 miles of shoreline. 

Anglers can conveniently launch their boats at the DEC hard launch off NY-Route 28 on the east end of Fourth Lake, accessing Third Lake through the connecting channel. Third Lake, with a mean depth of 31 feet, distinguishes itself within the Fulton Chain Lakes. 

This moderate depth adds an interesting dimension to the fishing experience, offering a balance between the shallower First Lake and the deeper Second Lake. The lake’s unique characteristics make it an ideal spot for anglers of varying skill levels, providing a diverse range of fishing conditions.

New York State Best Fishing Lakes, Rivers, and Streams

Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (March to May)

As the ice thaws and spring breathes new life into Third Lake, anglers can target a variety of species, with a focus on lake trout as well as northern pike in March. Lake trout, favoring cold waters, can often be found near drop-offs and rocky structures.

Anglers can employ live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers and experiment with trolling at different depths to locate these cold-water predators. Northern pike, known for their aggressiveness, often patrol the shallower areas and move into deeper water as they grow in size. Casting large spoons, jerkbaits, or using live bait under a bobber can entice strikes from these formidable predators.

Lake trout, a native species in Third Lake, are known for their preference for cold, well-oxygenated waters. They exhibit a wide range of coloration, from light green to almost black, adapting to the varied depths of the lake.

Summer (June to August):

As the sun warms the waters, bass, perch, and sunfish become primary targets for fishermen on Third Lake. Bass, particularly largemouth and smallmouth, seek shelter around submerged structures and weed beds. 

Topwater lures, plastic worms, and jigs are effective choices for enticing bass strikes. Perch and sunfish, abundant in the warmer months, can be targeted with small jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics. 

Fishing around weed edges and drop-offs enhances the chances of a successful outing. Largemouth bass in Third Lake can exhibit a variety of feeding behaviors, from ambushing prey near structures to aggressively striking topwater lures during dawn and dusk.

Fall (September to November):

As temperatures cool, fall on Third Lake brings fishing opportunities for targeting a mix of species, including bass and panfish. Bass continue to linger around structures, and slow presentations with jigs or soft plastics mimic the movements of prey, triggering strikes.

Panfish, including perch and sunfish, may move to slightly deeper waters. Anglers can use small jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics to attract bites. Additionally, exploring the shallows near rocky areas may yield encounters with lake trout, as they become more active in preparation for the colder months.

In autumn, lake trout fishing in Third Lake showcases heightened aggressiveness in their feeding behavior, rendering them more responsive to lures and providing an exhilarating challenge for anglers. 

Varied retrieval rates are recommended for targeting lake trout, as they might display vigorous and forceful strikes on certain occasions while adopting a more subtle approach to others. Adapting your technique to the dynamic feeding patterns when fishing for lake trout enhances the chances of a successful and thrilling fishing experience.

Winter (December to February – Ice Fishing Permitted):

When winter casts its icy spell, adventurous anglers venture onto Third Lake for ice-fishing adventures. Targeting panfish like perch and sunfish becomes popular during this season. 

Tiny jigs tipped with spikes (maggots) or soft plastics prove effective in attracting these smaller but plentiful species. Ice fishing-specific rods with sensitive tips aid in detecting subtle bites beneath the frozen surface.

Ice fishing on Third Lake unveils a different perspective, with the lake’s clear ice providing a window into the underwater world. Panfish often gather near structures, creating hotspots for successful ice fishing, and can easily be spotted on sonar devices such as fish finders. 

What Third Lake is Known For

Nestled within the illustrious 16-mile expanse known as the Fulton Chain, the third lake aptly bears the straightforward moniker of “Third Lake.” This lake occupies a distinctive position within the series, situated in close proximity to its antecedent, Second Lake. As an integral component of the continuous waterway that gracefully meanders from First Lake through Fifth Lake, Third Lake contributes to the seamless beauty of the Fulton Chain.

Beyond its geographical significance, Third Lake, much like its aquatic companions in the Fulton Chain, shares a compelling historical connection to Robert Fulton’s visionary Adirondack canal system.

In the present day, it stands as a testament to a rich legacy and stands as a favored destination for diverse recreational pursuits, including camping, fishing, and hiking. The uninterrupted water route fosters a cohesive and delightful experience for those embarking on the exploration of the Fulton Chain of Lakes.

Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points

Access to Third Lake in the Fulton Chain is primarily facilitated through a connecting channel located at the eastern end of Fourth Lake, near the town of Inlet, NY in Hamilton County.

Inlet is the town that is geographically positioned at the “head of Fourth Lake.” It serves as a notable point of access for those looking to explore the subsequent lakes in the Fulton Chain.

Inlet is a small town with various amenities, including Kalil’s Grocery Store, a post office, a realtor’s office, restaurants, and other stores. The presence of these facilities makes Inlet a convenient base for individuals seeking boating and fishing access to Third Lake and the rest of the Fulton Chain. 

Boaters and outdoor enthusiasts can use Inlet as a starting point for their journey, ensuring that they have the necessary supplies and services before venturing into the chain of lakes.