Canadice Lake Fishing – Fish Species, Seasons, Access, & FAQs

Fishing on Canadice Lake offers anglers the opportunity to pursue many different fish species including lake trout, yellow perch, brown trout, rainbow trout, chain pickerel, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brown bullhead, panfish (like bluegill and pumpkinseed), and Atlantic salmon. With its clear waters and abundant fish life, Canadice Lake provides a serene escape and a chance to reel in impressive catches. It truly stands as one of Ontario County’s most beautiful fishing spots. 

“Located in the Town of Canadice, the lake stretches about 3 miles long, reaches up to 0.3 miles wide, and plunges to a maximum depth of 95 feet. It’s part of the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York, sharing its distinctive aquatic ecosystem with several other well-known lakes in the area.

Learn more about NY’s best fishing spots

Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (March – May)

As spring unfolds on Canadice Lake, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass become increasingly active. During this period, these species migrate towards shallower waters for spawning.

Anglers seeking success in spring can employ straightforward yet effective techniques that combine the right gear with strategic presentation. As the weather warms and bass move into shallower waters to spawn, a thoughtful approach becomes key. Wearing a lightweight cap and polarized sunglasses helps anglers cut glare and spot fish more easily beneath the surface, giving them a visual edge when targeting active areas. Waders allow access to otherwise unreachable shoreline spots, letting anglers quietly position themselves near submerged structures where bass are most likely to be guarding nests.

While traditional gear like spinning setups remain effective, fly rods offer a unique advantage when paired with subtle soft plastics or streamers that imitate natural prey. Plastic worms, for example, mimic the movement of vulnerable forage and can be especially deadly when flipped near cover or dragged slowly across beds. 

Jerkbaits and spinnerbaits are additional go-to options, providing enticing movements that trigger strikes from these territorial bass. In addition to bass, chain pickerel, brown bullhead, and yellow perch also show increased activity in the shallows during spring. Live bait, such as worms or minnows, prove effective in enticing bites from these species. 

Summer (June – August)

Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass maintain their activity levels, providing fishermen with continued chances for success. In the summer months, transitioning to topwater lures, crankbaits, and jigs can yield positive results for bass enthusiasts. 

For those targeting chain pickerel, weedy areas become key locations during the summer. 

Soft plastics excel in these environments, providing a reliable means of attracting bites. Additionally, panfish like bluegill and pumpkinseed become more active. Anglers can use small jigs or live bait near structures to entice these panfish during their summer feeding patterns.

Fall (September – November)

As the crisp air of fall descends upon Canadice Lake, it marks a season of heightened activity and strategic fishing. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass intensify their feeding habits, preparing for the impending colder months. 

Chain pickerel fishing remains productive during the fall, and experienced fishermen often find success employing spinnerbaits, especially in weedy areas. The lure’s motion can trigger strikes from the opportunistic chain pickerel.

For those seeking to catch brown trout and lake trout, fall fishing is prime time. These trout species become more active in the cooler waters, offering anglers an exciting opportunity.

Pairing  trolling rods with planner boards, spoons or using live bait can be highly productive. 

Winter (December – February)

As winter blankets Canadice Lake in a thick layer of ice, a distinctive and rewarding fishing experience emerges for cold-weather anglers. Ice fishing here, permitted in designated areas, draws in those eager to pursue trout and pickerel lurking beneath the frozen surface. Success often hinges on using the right gear—ice fishing jigs or tip-ups rigged with live bait are time-tested tools for enticing bites in these frigid conditions.

Equally important are the tools that support a smooth and responsible catch. Compact fishing nets make it easier to retrieve wriggling fish through tight ice holes without losing them at the surface. Once landed, pliers are essential for safely removing hooks, especially with cold fingers and barbed tackle. For those practicing catch-and-release or monitoring slot limits, a fishing ruler ensures quick, accurate measurements without unnecessary handling of the fish.

What Canadice Lake is Known For

Canadice Lake serves not only as a vital water reservoir but also as a reputable location for recreational fishing. Among the notable catches, angler Josh Miner landed a 27-inch lake trout using a PK lure—an impressive example of the lake’s capacity to produce quality fish. While not an official record, the catch illustrates the strong angling potential the lake consistently offers.

Canadice Lake is regularly stocked with multiple trout species, contributing to sustainable fishing opportunities throughout the year. These stocking efforts, combined with the lake’s relatively low fishing pressure, make it a productive site for both experienced and casual anglers.

In addition to its recreational value, Canadice Lake holds long-standing importance as a public utility. Alongside Hemlock Lake, it has supplied drinking water to the City of Rochester for over a century. The surrounding steep, forested, and undeveloped shoreline contributes to both the protection of water quality and the preservation of a quiet, natural environment that enhances the overall experience for visitors.

As for activities around Canadice Lake, the region offers a variety of options. Boating is permitted with some restrictions, and kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding thrive due to minimal boating traffic. See detail from NY DEC here.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest, which covers almost 7,000 acres and features 14 miles of marked trails. Rob’s Trail, connecting both lakes, offers a unique experience with gorges and waterfalls. The region, with its outdoor activities, scenic trails, and pristine lakes, provides a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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

In the town of Canadice, public access to the lake is conveniently provided on the eastern shore, where Canadice Road intersects with Birch Hill Road. Boaters and fishermen can utilize an unimproved gravel boat ramp to launch their vessels. 

This boat ramp offers a straightforward entry point to the lake, catering to boaters seeking a less developed launch site. For those favoring cartop boats, the southern tip of the lake has a designated cartop launch for easy entry and exit for canoes, kayaks, and other smaller craft. 

Additionally, scattered along the east shore, several informal access points welcome cartop boats, shore fishermen, and ice fishing enthusiasts, creating options for enjoying the lake.

For a comprehensive overview of public boat access sites, including those in Canadice, visitors can refer to the Boat Launch Sites for Ontario County. This resource provides detailed information and Google Maps driving directions to ensure convenient navigation to the various launch points. 

The county’s commitment to accessible water recreation is evident, with a focus on enhancing the boating experience for residents and visitors alike. The inclusion of assorted access points, such as the gravel ramp, cartop launches, and informal spots, highlights the community’s dedication to accommodating a range of watercraft and activities.

When exploring these access points, it’s essential to consider the geographic layout. Canadice Lake’s east side, marked by the intersection of Canadice Road and Birch Hill Road, serves as a hub for water enthusiasts. 

This location not only provides easy access to the unimproved gravel ramp but also ensures proximity to the diverse cartop launch options along the lake’s southern end and the informal access points scattered along the east shore.