Discover Seventh Lake Fishing: Seasonal Tips, History, FAQs
Brown trout, lake trout, landlocked salmon, and rainbow trout, are the primary targets when fishing Seventh Lake. Fishermen can use the state-owned hard surface ramp off NY-28, conveniently located 3 miles east of Inlet, providing parking for 20 trucks and trailers.
Seventh Lake is a standout feature of the Fulton Chain Lakes, attracting anglers eager to explore its deep, fish-rich waters. With a maximum depth of 93 feet (28 meters), it offers diverse opportunities for targeting multiple fish species.
Two of the lake’s deepest holes are located northwest and northeast of Goff Island, which sits centrally along the lake’s east-west axis, near its southern end. Additionally, three 60-foot holes can be found west of Goff Island. For anglers aiming to locate these productive spots, the use of a GPS unit is highly recommended.
Stretching over 11.2 miles (18.0 kilometers) of shoreline, Seventh Lake provides ample access for casting and exploring less-traveled fishing areas. The lake’s outlet flows into Sixth Lake via a channel that passes under the 7th Lake Road bridge, while its main inlet originates from Eighth Lake, enhancing the connectivity and ecological diversity of the region.
Adding to its appeal, the lake is dotted with islands, most notably Goff Island, situated near the mouth of Wheeler Creek. These features not only enhance the scenic value of the lake but also contribute to a unique and rewarding fishing experience.
Learn more – New York State Fishing Lakes, Rivers, and Streams
Spring (March to May)
In the spring at Seventh Lake, brown trout become a prime target for anglers employing Stonefly Nymphs. These artificial flies mimic the natural prey of brown trout, presenting an enticing option for anglers looking to capitalize on the increased activity of these fish during the season.
Shallow areas near the inlet and channels serve as strategic locations for casting Stonefly Nymphs, taking advantage of the preferred feeding zones of brown trout during their springtime foraging.
Simultaneously, rainbow trout enthusiasts focus on streamer flies to replicate the erratic movements of baitfish. This technique proves effective in areas characterized by moderate water flow and structural elements, providing anglers with an opportunity to engage with the energetic rainbow trout population.
When employing lures, brands like Rapala and Mepps are popular choices among trout anglers. Rapala lures, such as the Rapala Original Floater or Jointed Rapala, are known for their realistic swimming action, imitating wounded baitfish. Mepps, with its iconic spinning lures like the Mepps Aglia, provides an effective option, simulating the vibrations and reflections of small fish.
These lure options offer versatility for fishermen to experiment with different sizes and colors, catering to the preferences of the trout in Seventh Lake.
Additionally, when fishing with live bait, nightcrawlers, minnows, and crawfish are common choices, presented on rigs like Carolina rigs or simple hook-and-bait setups.
Summer (June to August)
In summer, downriggers and trolling prove effective for lake trout. Downriggers ensure precise depth control, presenting lures optimally for these cold-water predators. Anglers navigate depths strategically, however mastering trolling can take time and skill.
Yellow perch remain a key target species throughout the summer. Anglers employ a range of rigs to match conditions and perch behavior: live bait rigs offer a traditional, reliable setup; slip bobbers provide precision along weed edges and drop-offs; Lindy rigs allow for subtle live bait presentations; panfish crankbaits and inline spinners mimic small prey and trigger reaction strikes. This variety enables anglers to adapt and refine their approach as needed.
Targeting submerged structures is essential, as these areas serve as primary holding zones for perch, offering both cover and feeding opportunities. Adjusting techniques based on structure and conditions significantly improves catch rates.
Fall Transition (September–November)
In fall, lake trout remain active near rocky structures and respond well to trolling and finesse casting. Yellow perch shift into shallower waters, requiring tactical adjustments. However, the same rigs used during summer—particularly slip bobbers, live bait setups, and finesse presentations—remain effective as perch behavior evolves with cooling temperatures.
Black bullhead, often overlooked, can be enticed with the same baits as channel catfish, including cut bait, chicken livers, blood-soaked meal, or other pungent baits. Bottom fishing techniques add diversity to the fall angling experience.
Winter (December to February)
targeted in deeper areas using tip-ups rigged with live bait or artificial lures. For yellow perch, jigging near submerged structures and along drop-offs yields consistent results.
Smelt may also be encountered during the season, adding variety to the winter fishing experience.
Safety is paramount when venturing onto the ice. Always verify ice thickness before travel and use appropriate safety gear, including ice picks, throw ropes, and personal flotation devices (PFDs). Portable shelters with heaters can enhance comfort, but proper ventilation and equipment maintenance are critical to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. These precautions help ensure a productive and secure outing on Seventh Lake’s frozen surface.
What Seventh Lake is Known For
Seventh Lake, part of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, is known for its natural beauty and underexplored history. While early historical accounts focused on the more populated First through Fourth Lakes, Robert Maloney’s 1989 publication helped bring attention to Seventh Lake’s unique past.
Before the advent of railroads, hunters, trappers, and sportsmen navigated these waters with the help of local guides. As interest in the Adirondacks grew, so did the number of camps and lodges along Seventh Lake’s shoreline, marking its quiet emergence as a recreational destination.
The lake became home to a variety of camps, each with its own history and character. Notable nearby islands—Goff Island, Boshart Island, and Miller Island—also hold individual historical significance, further enriching the cultural landscape of the lake.
From the panoramic views of Duane Norton’s hotel to the busy camps of pioneers, Seventh Lake stands as a testament to the vibrant history and recreational legacy of the Adirondack region.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points.
On the southeastern side of Seventh Lake, anglers can access the waters through a DEC launch. This public fishing access point provides a convenient entry for those seeking to explore the lake’s offerings.
Located in proximity to the Fourth Lake and Eighth Lake, this launch allows anglers to seamlessly traverse the interconnected water bodies. Accessing Seventh Lake from the southeast not only provides a serene starting point but also connects adventurers to the broader Fulton Chain of Lakes.
For those coming from the neighboring Fourth Lake, there is an opportunity to reach Seventh Lake and delve into its fishing prospects. Utilizing the waterways connecting Fourth Lake to Seventh Lake, anglers can enjoy a picturesque journey between these interconnected lakes, however, it should be noted that portages may be required at some points of the journey.
As part of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Seventh Lake sits within the broader geographic context of the Adirondack region. The interconnected water bodies, including Fourth Lake and Eighth Lake, create a network of opportunities for exploration.
The DEC launch on the southeastern side serves as a key access point, and the proximity of Fourth Lake and Eighth Lake highlights the interconnected nature of these water bodies. Understanding the geographic layout enhances the overall experience for those eager to discover the fishing treasures of Seventh Lake and its surrounding counterparts.
Black Lake, NY Fishing: Tips, Articles, Species
Located in Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties, New York, Black Lake covers 12.27 square miles with depths reaching up to 70 feet. Known for its diverse fish population, the lake is a prime destination for anglers. It features over 30 islands like Sugar and Grindstone, each offering unique fishing experiences for species like walleye, bass, and muskie.
Located in Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties, Black Lake offers anglers a diverse fishing experience throughout the year. Spanning 12.27 square miles with depths reaching 70 feet, the lake is home to a variety of fish species. The lake’s over 30 islands, such as Sugar and Grindstone, provide excellent fishing opportunities, whether you’re chasing walleye, bass, or muskie. Each season brings unique challenges and opportunities for anglers looking to make the most of their time on the water.
Spring Fishing (March-May)
As the ice melts and warmer waters signal the arrival of spring, fish like walleye begin to move towards the shallows. Spring is a critical time for spawning, with walleyes gathering in areas such as Wellesley and Canoe Islands. Trolling becomes an effective technique for catching walleyes, especially when using crankbaits like Rapala Deep Tail Dancers or Bandit Walleye Divers in shallow depths between 5 and 10 feet. Live bait, such as nightcrawlers on minnow rigs, works well too, especially when using a downrigger to maintain the perfect depth.
Springtime also brings opportunities for crappie fishing around areas like Big Gull Island. Using light tackle, cast jigs tipped with minnows or Berkley PowerBait. Ultrathin spinning rods paired with monofilament lines allow for sensitive detection of bites. Small jigs in colors like white, yellow, or pink can attract crappies near weed beds and structures like fallen logs.
For northern pike, focus on shallow weed pockets, especially near Strawberry Island. Spinnerbaits or Bomber Long A lures in bright colors are effective in these areas. Ensure you have wire leaders and gloves for safely handling these toothy predators. Additionally, yellow perch fishing ramps up in spring, with small jigs tipped with waxworms or Berkley PowerBait Shrimp enticing these fish around submerged structures like those near Goose and Whiskey Islands.
Summer Fishing (June-August)
As the heat of summer sets in, fishing techniques must adapt to warmer water temperatures. For bass, finesse jigs in weights between 1/8 and 3/16 ounces work well when rigged with crawfish appendages. These jigs should be weedless to avoid snags in dense cover. Focus on areas near rocks and fallen logs, especially around Goose Island. Shallow-diving crankbaits like Rapala Shad Raps and Salmo Rattlin’ Raps, paired with stop-and-go or twitchy retrieves, mimic the erratic movements of prey and are highly effective for bass.
Walleye fishing in summer shifts to deeper waters, typically in the range of 20 to 40 feet. Crankbaits, such as the Flicker Shad in firetiger or blue/silver patterns, are ideal for downrigger trolling. Minnow imitation lures, retrieved slowly over drop-offs and humps, can also be successful. Be sure to use stronger rods and heavier line to handle the increased strength of summer walleyes.
For those targeting bluegill, fly fishing with small, brightly colored flies near weed beds is a fun option, especially around Strawberry and Big Gull Islands. For a spin fishing approach, tiny jigs tipped with maggots or Berkley PowerBait Power Nymph are effective. When fishing for yellow perch, move to deeper areas near drop-offs and humps, using small crankbaits like the Rapala Mini Fat or Salmo Tiny Rattlin’ Rap. A light tackle setup (6-8 lb) and smooth drag are essential for success.
Muskie fishing also heats up in summer, with large crankbaits and bucktail lures providing great action. Look for these trophy fish around deep weed beds and rocky areas, particularly near Tibbetts and Sugar Islands. Muskie lures should be trolled slowly with erratic retrieves to mimic fleeing prey, requiring patience and persistence.
Fall Fishing (September-November)
As the weather cools, walleye fishing enters a new phase, and deeper-diving crankbaits become the go-to tools. Lures like the Salmo Hornet or Bandit Walleye Deep Cranks in colors such as chartreuse or silver can be trolled near shorelines and weed edges. This time of year also presents an opportunity for minnow rigs with live nightcrawlers, particularly when rigged with heavier weights to reach depths of 10 to 15 feet.
Crappie fishing can still be productive in fall, with small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms working well in shallower waters. Fall crappie are often attracted to structures, and varying your jig retrieval speeds can help you find the right rhythm for success.
For perch, small jigs with bright colors and marabou skirts are effective, especially when tipped with waxworms or Berkley PowerBait Power Shrimp in pink or pearl shades. The cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to target perch with light tackle.
Winter Ice Fishing (December-February)
Winter transforms Black Lake into an ice fisher’s paradise. However, safety should always be the top priority when venturing onto the ice. Always check ice thickness before heading out and carry essential safety gear like ice picks and flares.
Panfish, such as bluegill and crappie, are the primary targets for winter ice fishing. Tip-ups baited with live minnows placed near weed beds or drop-offs in shallow areas (5-10 feet) are an effective strategy. Jigging with small, flashy spoons like Nils Master Lures in gold or firetiger is another productive method for attracting these fish.
For pike, use tip-ups baited with live minnows placed near weed edges or drop-offs. Additionally, larger, flashy spoons like Nils Master Lures in firetiger can be trolled slowly near deeper weed beds and rocky areas for trophy pike.
When targeting walleyes, set tip-ups with live minnows in deeper areas (10-15 feet) near drop-offs and humps. Small jigs or flashy spoons in silver/blue or pearl patterns, jigged actively near the bottom, can also entice walleye in winter.
Lastly, for yellow perch, focus on shallow areas near weed beds and rocky points. Jig small lures in bright colors and tip them with waxworms or Berkley PowerBait Shrimp for added attraction.
Boat Launches and Public Access
Accessing Black Lake’s waters is easy with these public black lake NY boat launches:
- Wellesley Island State Park: Located on Wellesley Island, the park provides two boat launches with ample parking, offering direct access to the lake. Launching fees may apply.
- Eel Weir Campground: Found near the eastern shore, this campground features a public boat launch with limited parking. A day-use fee might be required.
- Tibbetts Island Boat Launch: Conveniently placed on Tibbetts Island, this launch offers easy access to the lake’s northern areas. A park pass may be necessary, so check park regulations beforehand.
