Thousand Islands Fishing: Seasons, Species & Trophy Fish
Fishing enthusiasts in the Thousand Islands can anticipate a diverse range of target fish species. From trophy fish – trout, walleye, large and smallmouth bass, northern pike, bullhead, channel cats, and the mighty muskellunge, commonly known as the Muskie, the waters around the islands offer a rich variety of catches.
Thousand Islands fishing on this stunning archipelago comprising 1,864 islands, creates a unique and captivating environment at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. Straddling the Canada–US border, these islands are situated downstream from Kingston, Ontario, stretching for approximately 50 miles. The Canadian islands fall under the province of Ontario, while the U.S. islands are part of the state of New York.
The islands vary significantly in size, ranging from expansive land masses of over 40 square miles to smaller, privately-owned, or uninhabited outcroppings of rocks. To be classified as one of the Thousand Islands, emergent land within the river channel must have at least one square foot of land above water level year-round and support a minimum of two living trees.
The combination of the islands’ natural beauty, international border location, and the abundance of fish species makes the Thousand Islands a great destination for anglers seeking a memorable and rewarding fishing experience.
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Seasonal Fishing Techniques
Spring (March to May)
In the spring months, fishing the Thousand Islands region enables fishermen to target a variety of species. Brook trout are abundant in Indian River lakes, streams, and rivers, and successful techniques include using flies, spinners, spoons, and worms.
Brown trout provide excitement as they move to inshore shallows early in the season, requiring light tackle for optimal results. Yellow perch, a favorite among anglers, can be found in shallow bays, creek mouths, and marshes, with the added option of ice-fishing.
Northern pike, known for their vicious strikes, frequent shallow bays and marshes, and anglers can use large spoons, plugs, spinners, or live bait for an exhilarating battle. Largemouth bass are an alternative species that can be targeted around islands, off islands, and in bays during this season.
Summer (June to July)
As summer arrives focus shifts to smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and lake trout. Smallmouth bass, with their tough, rod-bending nature, are abundant around islands, off islands, and in bays during the summer.
Walleye, known for their delicious flavor and light-tackle fight, can be targeted in inshore shallows during spring and fall, transitioning to deeper shoals in summer. Northern pike continues to offer exciting strikes in shallow bays and marshes throughout the year, while lake trout, preferring cooler, deep waters, provide excellent action during the summer. An alternative summer target includes rainbow trout in Indian River lakes, streams, and rivers, popular for surface trolling and shore fishing.
Fall (August to November)
Moving into the fall months anglers can pursue chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and walleye. Chinook salmon, the largest in the Pacific salmon family, are targeted in deep water during summer and around tributaries for fall spawning.
Coho salmon travel in schools, often near concentrations of smelt or alewives, making sonar and trolling with downriggers effective techniques. Steelhead fishing is best during the spring and fall spawning runs, especially in and around tributaries like Black River and North and South Sandy Creeks. Walleye, known for their delicate flavor, offer exciting action in inshore shallows during spring and fall, and deeper shoals in the summer.
Winter (December to February)
As winter takes hold from December to February, ice fishing gains popularity, drawing enthusiasts eager for the thrill of catching walleye in the inshore shallows. This winter pursuit promises exciting action, defying the chillier temperatures.
Meanwhile, yellow perch, cherished by anglers, provides delightful opportunities for enjoyment in the calm surroundings of shallow bays, creek mouths, and marshes throughout this season.
What Thousand Islands is Known For – History and Trophy Fish
In the heart of the Thousand Islands region, where the St. Lawrence River flows from Lake Ontario to the North Atlantic Ocean, the renowned charter captain Rich Clarke has set his sights on breaking a world record. Specializing in pursuing super-sized muskies, Clarke, based in Clayton, N.Y., has made a name for himself as a seasoned angler and guide.
Notably, in November 2022, a trophy muskie was caught and recognized by the IGFA as the world record all-tackle catch-and-release fish, measuring an impressive 135 cm (53.149 inches) in length.
With a career spanning 43 years, Clarke’s expertise, customized tackle setup, and artisan lures specifically crafted for giants underscore his conviction. As the lore of the St. Lawrence River and its trophy muskie continues to grow, Rich Clarke’s pursuit of breaking the world record adds another chapter to the river’s storied fishing history.
Beyond the angling achievements, the Thousand Islands region boasts a rich history, characterized by the presence of 1,864 islands, each with its own unique features. Notable islands like Wolfe Island and Howe Island, with year-round residents and ferry accessibility, add to the region’s charm.
The fascinating Zavikon Island duo, shrouded in a popular but incorrect tale of having the shortest international bridge, captivates visitors with its intriguing geography. The islands, ranging from small rocky shores to expansive landscapes, create a picturesque backdrop for various activities and events.
The Thousand Islands also holds a historic connection to smuggling, with its intricate network of nooks, crannies, rocks, and caves providing cover for smugglers during different eras. Notable locations like Smuggler’s Cave, associated with prohibition-era alcohol, pirate loot, and treasure, add a touch of mystery to the region.
Hill Island, with its Horse Thief Trail dating back to the War of 1812, allows visitors to walk through history, exploring remnants of a time when horses were taken south and beef was transported north. The Thousand Islands, with its blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and world-class fishing pursuits, offers a unique and multifaceted experience for residents and visitors alike.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Positioned along the St. Lawrence River, Wellesley Island State Park stands as a leading gateway to the Thousand Islands region. Recognized as the largest camping complex in the state, it offers an array of accommodation options, including tent and trailer sites, cabins, and cottages.
Boasting a marina and boat launches, the park caters to boating enthusiasts, allowing easy access to the surrounding islands and waterways. Year-round activities at the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center add to the allure, providing a perfect blend of nature and recreation.
Situated on the St. Lawrence River near the Eisenhower Lock, Robert Moses State Park beckons with its prime location along the Seaway Trail. Offering both camping and cabin rental options, this park is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, providing some of the best fishing experiences in the northeast. With opportunities for picnics, swimming, and trail exploration, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and recreational offerings.
For those seeking quiet and seclusion, Coles Creek and DeWolf Point, along with island parks like Canoe-Picnic Point, Cedar Island, and Mary Island State Parks, offer rustic camping settings.
These locations, surrounded by the stunning landscape, provide for truly outstanding Thousand Islands fishing and boating experiences. The serene ambiance and connection with nature make them ideal retreats for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
At the far eastern portion of the Thousand Islands region lies Point au Roche State Park, offering expansive vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. This scenic park features swimming, picnicking, hiking, and a boat launch, providing a diverse range of recreational activities.
Nearby, Cumberland Bay State Park on Lake Champlain boasts 2,700 feet of beach, offering campsites with water views and creating a perfect setting for a lakeside camping experience. These eastern gems provide a beautiful escape for those exploring the Thousand Islands region.
