Conesus Lake Fishing: Seasonal Tips, Species, and Lake Access Points

Conesus Lake stands out as a premier fishing destination in western New York, known for its healthy populations of game fish such as bass, perch, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, and panfish. Anglers of all skill levels will appreciate the variety and challenge this lake offers, with each species demanding a different approach and technique. Whether you’re targeting trophy-sized pike or enjoying a relaxing day catching panfish, Conesus Lake delivers a rewarding and well-rounded fishing experience.

Located in Livingston County, primarily within the Town of Livonia and bordered by towns like Geneseo, Conesus, and Groveland, Conesus Lake is one of the most accessible and productive fisheries in western New York. Spanning 8 miles in length and up to 1 mile in width, the lake offers diverse habitats for anglers to explore, from shallow weedy bays to deeper mid-lake basins. With a maximum depth of 66 feet, Conesus supports a variety of warmwater and coolwater species.

Whether you’re casting from shore, trolling from a boat, or ice fishing in winter, the lake delivers year-round angling opportunities in a scenic, well-developed setting.

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Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (March to May)

As spring temperatures rise, largemouth and smallmouth bass migrate to shallow, warmer waters to spawn, offering some of the best action of the season. Target shoreline areas with structure—such as submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and dock pilings—where bass establish nesting sites. Soft plastics like Senkos, creature baits, and crawfish-imitating jigs are effective, while topwater lures such as frogs work well during low-light periods, especially early mornings and evenings when bass are aggressively feeding.

Transitioning into mid-spring, northern pike become increasingly active in shallow weed beds and along rocky shorelines as they enter their post-spawn feeding phase. Larger baits—jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, and paddle-tail swimbaits—trigger strikes from these ambush predators. Cover water efficiently, and be prepared for explosive hits. A fishing scale is essential this time of year, especially when landing larger pike or bass—spring is prime time for personal bests.

While less aggressive in the spring, walleye and yellow perch can still be found in deeper water near ledges and drop-offs. Vertically jigging with live bait—fathead minnows or nightcrawlers—on light tackle can yield consistent results. A sharp fillet knife is a must-have if you’re keeping perch or walleye for the table; fresh filets are a local favorite and easy to prepare right at the dock.

As the action heats up and anglers cover more water, especially when using outboards or gas-powered trolling motors, collapsible fuel containers and jerry cans become practical additions to any setup. They provide safe, space-efficient ways to refuel and extend your time on the water without making unnecessary trips to shore.

Summer (June to August)

As summer sets in, the warm waters of Conesus Lake bring a diverse range of species into play. While the shallows may experience fishing pressure due to increased recreational activity, savvy anglers turn their attention to deeper waters—specifically weed lines, submerged structures, and dock edges—where both largemouth and smallmouth bass thrive. Techniques like drop-shotting, Carolina rigging, and using deep-diving crankbaits can be highly effective in these areas, allowing anglers to target bass that have moved to cooler depths.

For northern pike, known for their relentless aggression, focus on areas with thick weed beds and submerged structures. Given their sharp teeth, be sure to use wire leaders to avoid losing lures to these toothy predators. Walleye and tiger musky also remain active near drop-offs and along deeper structures, providing plenty of action for those targeting them with crankbaits, jerkbaits, and live bait. Trolling is a great technique to cover more water and find where fish are holding. A solid trolling rod setup is essential, and rod storage options—like secure rod holders or portable racks—are necessary to keep your gear safe and organized while you navigate the lake.

As the day progresses and conditions change, having dry bags on hand is key to keeping extra clothing, electronics, and valuables safe from the elements. With the unpredictable summer weather, these bags are indispensable for ensuring your gear stays dry and accessible, no matter how wet the conditions get. Whether you’re making a run to a new spot or taking a break at a dock, it’s always a good idea to have your gear protected.

Fall (September to November)

As autumn progresses, the pace of northern pike fishing on Conesus Lake tends to decelerate, primarily influenced by the decreasing water temperatures. The lowered activity levels of pike during this season make them less prone to striking lures or flies.

Nevertheless, this slowdown in traditional fishing methods unveils a new avenue of opportunity for anglers. During fall and winter, pike can be effectively targeted using dead bait methods. 

This approach not only proves successful but also aligns well with catch-and-release fishing practices. The slower consumption of bait by northern pike during these colder months minimizes the risk of gut hooks, a concern more prevalent in the rapid strikes observed during the warmer summer months.

While northern pike fishing on Conesus Lake may taper off, the angling landscape diversifies with promising opportunities. Walleye and yellow perch persist near drop-offs and deeper structures, presenting fishermen with a varied array of options. 

This seasonal shift adds depth to the fishing experience, encouraging anglers to explore different techniques and adapt to the evolving conditions for rewarding fall and winter on Conesus Lake.

Winter (December to February)

As winter sets in, Conesus Lake transforms into a prime ice fishing destination. Species like yellow perch, bluegills, brown bullhead, and the occasional walleye become accessible to those willing to brave the cold. For yellow perch, small jigs, tip-ups, and live bait can be effective near shallower areas where they tend to gather. Adapt to the colder conditions by using ice rods with sensitive tips that allow for precise detection of bites in frigid waters.

For bluegills and brown bullhead, the same methods work well, with small jigs tipped with live bait being the go-to choice. The key to success with these species is targeting them near submerged structures, like sunken weeds or drop-offs, where they congregate during the winter months.

For walleye, vertical jigging is one of the most productive techniques, and live bait presentations—like minnows or nightcrawlers—can work wonders. Given the conditions, ice rods designed for walleye fishing are a must, offering the sensitivity and strength to handle these often elusive predators. Reel lubricant is also crucial in winter; cold temperatures can cause reels to seize, so applying a proper lubricant will ensure smooth operation even in subzero conditions.

With the right gear—ice rods for precision, reel lubricant to keep your equipment functioning in the cold, and essential baiting strategies—winter on Conesus Lake offers a rewarding ice fishing experience for both novice and seasoned anglers alike.

What Conesus Lake is Known For

In May, Al Reyna, a resident of Manlius, achieved a memorable fishing feat on Conesus Lake. While fishing for northern pike with his son, John, and friends Mike Swale and John Vercillo, Reyna caught and released a 9-pound largemouth bass. The catch, made using a large minnow in 15 feet of water, added to the lake’s storied fishing history.

Although the bass did not surpass any official records, it remains a significant local achievement. For context, the state record for largemouth bass in New York is 11 pounds, 4 ounces, caught in Buckhorn Lake, Otsego County, on September 11, 1987, using a spinnerbait. Reyna’s catch, while not record-breaking, contributes to the rich tradition of fishing on Conesus Lake and remains a memorable event among local anglers.

Known as the “jewel of Livingston County,” Conesus Lake has a deep connection to the region’s history. As the most westerly of the Finger Lakes, the lake has long been valued by Native Americans and is still cherished by residents today.

However, increased development along its shoreline has caused some controversy, making lake access more challenging for visitors. Despite this, Conesus Lake continues to serve as a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation and a picturesque natural landmark.

The surrounding community offers an array of activities and events. Campgrounds such as Conesus Lake Campground and Southern Shores Campground provide lodging options, while local vacation rentals from Conesus Lake Rentals offer additional accommodations for visitors. Nearby parks like Vitale Park and Long Point Park are ideal spots for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying local concerts.

The lake’s scenic beauty and community spirit are celebrated during events like the annual “Ring of Fire”, organized by the Conesus Lake Association. Held on July 3rd, the event features flares lining the shoreline, creating a stunning visual tribute to the lake.

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

Conesus Lake provides several public access points for fishing and boating enthusiasts. The Conesus Lake Public Boat Launch, situated on East Lake Road near McPherson Point, is a popular choice. This site features a hard-surface launch ramp, making it convenient for boaters. With parking available for 45 cars with trailers, it is well-maintained by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. 

Additionally, those seeking a more natural experience can visit the Conesus Inlet Wildlife Management Area located off West Lake Road (Rt. 256), at the south end of the lake. This spot caters to cartop launches, and there is parking available for up to 40 cars, managed by the NY DEC.

For a relaxing boating experience, Pebble Beach, situated off Pebble Beach Road in the northwest corner of Conesus Lake, provides cartop launches. This access point is operated by the NY DEC and offers parking facilities for up to 120 cars. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a serene setting while launching their boats.

At the north end of Conesus Lake, boaters can explore the Sand Point access point, located off Rt. 20A. Similar to Pebble Beach, this site supports cartop launches and has parking available for 45 cars. The management responsibilities are shared between the Town of Livonia and the NY DEC.

These various access points not only cater to different preferences but also ensure that boating and fishing enthusiasts have ample options to explore Conesus Lake. Visitors can enjoy the lake’s varied landscapes, from the peaceful surroundings of Pebble Beach to the northern charm of Sand Point. For more detailed information and directions to these launches, interested individuals can refer to the Boat Launch Sites for Livingston County page on NY DEC.