Cayuga Lake Fishing Seasons and Tips – Catch Trophy Fish
Cayuga Lake fishing is known for its populations of lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, chain pickerel, landlocked atlantic salmon, bass, panfish, northern pike and more. Whether trolling for trout or casting for bass, the opportunities presented by Cayuga Lake are as varied as the species that inhabit its waters.
Cayuga Lake, a prominent water body spanning an impressive 38 miles in length and reaching a maximum width of 3.5 miles, offers many options when fishing on Cayuga Lake. Situated across Tompkins, Cayuga, and Seneca Counties, this lake touches numerous towns, including Covert, Fayette, Genoa, Ithaca, Lansing, Ledyard, Ovid, Romulus, Seneca Falls, Springport, Ulysses, and Varick.
With an impressive maximum depth of 435 feet and a mean depth of 181 feet, Cayuga Lake stands as one of the deeper lakes in the region. Cayuga Lake is not just an independent water body but a part of a broader interconnected network of lakes and rivers.
Its connection to nearby bodies of water enhances the fishing experience, providing opportunities for anglers to explore different waters and fish for a variety of species.
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Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
In the spring, northern sections of Cayuga Lake, especially north of Long Point, become prime locations for lake trout fishing. As the lake begins to warm up, landlocked atlantic salmon, brown trout, northern pike, and rainbow trout become accessible in the southern third of Cayuga Lake.
From March through May, and again in November and December, the southern end of Cayuga Lake comes alive with fishing opportunities. Troll these waters for salmon, lake trout, brown trout, northern pike, and especially rainbow trout, which are particularly active during these months. Jigging for rainbows can be incredibly rewarding, offering steady action for dedicated anglers. In spring, when conditions shift quickly, having a reliable multi-tool on hand is especially useful for making quick gear adjustments or streamside fixes. For those who prefer fly fishing, a well-balanced fly rod and fly reel are essential, particularly near the mouths of tributaries where trout tend to gather.
Brown trout numbers remain fair to good, with potential improvements in young brown trout populations. Early spring also marks the beginning of bass fishing, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass becoming active.
Summer (June to August)
Summer brings a wide variety of fishing opportunities to Cayuga Lake, with largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing in full swing. The presence of round goby has helped smallmouth bass grow to impressive, trophy-worthy sizes.
Anglers targeting bass will benefit from using versatile game tackle, whether casting with bait rods or working shorelines and drop-offs with a spinning reel rigged for soft plastics or crankbaits. Northern pike fishing also picks up in the warmer months, often more productive in the northern stretches of the lake where dense vegetation provides ideal ambush cover.
Chain pickerel, abundant at the north end, provides exciting sports throughout late spring and summer. Warm, windless days are ideal for fly fishing Longnose Gar, offering a unique angling experience. Bluegills and sunfish are readily available, and yellow perch, with their increasing size, are abundant.
Fall (September to November)
As fall unfolds, there is a noticeable shift in the behavior of bass and pike on Cayuga Lake. During this season, their activity undergoes a gradual transition, maintaining a relatively steady pace.
Fishermen will find that pickerel, particularly at the north end of the lake, continue to offer engaging sport, presenting a consistent and rewarding challenge. For those seeking yellow perch, strategic fishing near drop-offs and deeper structures proves effective.
Additionally, autumn on Cayuga Lake spotlights brown trout as a focal point for late-season angling. This particular species provides exciting opportunities, drawing in those eager for varied and rewarding fishing.
Winter (December to February)
As winter sets in, Cayuga Lake transforms into a premier ice-fishing destination. The chilly months bring the lake’s cold-water species to the forefront, with lake trout taking center stage. As temperatures plummet, anglers head to the northern parts of the lake, where the ice is thick and lake trout fishing thrives. The season also reveals yellow perch and bluegills, often reaching impressive sizes, adding variety and excitement to the winter fishing experience. Furthermore, for those looking for a unique challenge, the elusive brown trout may make an appearance beneath the ice.
When ice fishing, it’s essential to be well-prepared. A reliable headlamp is invaluable for early mornings and late evenings on the ice, while PFDs (personal flotation devices) and safety equipment should always be a priority for any ice angler. Make sure you’re using the right gear—ice rods paired with inline ice reels are perfect for targeting these cold-water species with precision and ease, ensuring you’re ready for whatever the season has to offer.
Monitoring ice thickness becomes a non-negotiable practice, ensuring the well-being of anglers as they navigate the ice on Cayuga Lake.
What Cayuga Lake is Known For
In a noteworthy fishing achievement, on June 15, 2022, Thomas Russell Jr. of Albion set a new New York State record for smallmouth bass at Cayuga Lake, Seneca County. The catch weighed eight pounds and six ounces, surpassing the previous record by two ounces, which was tied between fish caught on Lake Erie in 1995 and in the St. Lawrence River in 2016.
Smallmouth bass are renowned for their tenacious fights, and Cayuga Lake is recognized as an angler’s paradise, offering exceptional fishing opportunities. Mr. Russell’s accomplishment is part of DEC’s Angler Achievement Awards Program, showcasing state-record fish.
Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes, holds historical significance in local fishing. The lake’s interesting ecosystem and abundant fish populations have made it a favored destination for fishermen for generations.
Apart from its fishing allure, the local community surrounding Cayuga Lake offers an array of activities, events, and attractions. The area is home to beautiful parks, such as Allan H. Treman State Marine Park and Taughannock Falls State Park, where visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
Cayuga Lake Cruises provide an opportunity to explore the lake, offering public and private cruises with various themes. Restaurants like The Boatyard Grill at the southern end of the lake on Cayuga Inlet and Six Mile Creek and Glenwood Pines offer delicious dining experiences with stunning lake views. Additionally, the region hosts attractions like the School’s Out Charters for private cruises and various outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a hub for both locals and visitors seeking diverse activities and a taste of the Finger Lakes lifestyle.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Enthusiasts looking to access the water in Tompkins County have several options catering to both boaters and shore anglers. The Allan H. Treman State Marina, conveniently situated one mile north of the city of Ithaca on Route 89 along the Cayuga Lake Inlet, is equipped with a concrete ramp, pump-out facilities, and ample parking for 141 cars and trailers.
Boaters can enjoy a smooth launch experience while taking in the surroundings. Another accessible location is Taughannock Falls State Park, located eight miles north of Ithaca on Route 89. This park offers a concrete ramp, pump-out facilities, and parking for 16 cars and trailers, making it an ideal spot for a variety of water activities.
For those seeking a blend of boating and shore-based fishing experiences, Myers Point, situated at the Town of Lansing Park off Route 34B, is an excellent choice. Boaters can utilize the concrete ramp, while shore anglers can find accessible areas for fishing. This location provides a versatile setting, accommodating different preferences for enjoying the water.
