Sixth Lake Fishing Guide: Seasons, Species, and Adventures
Sixth Lake, located in the heart of Inlet, New York, and part of the larger Fulton Chain of Lakes, is a great spot for anglers looking to target a wide variety of fish species. The lake is home to brown trout, whitefish, rainbow trout, lake trout, splake, smelt, white sucker, black bullhead, perch, and pumpkinseed sunfish, providing a diverse and rewarding fishing experience.
The lake’s structure includes an average depth of 12 feet and a maximum depth of 38 feet, creating a range of underwater features for anglers to target. The 3.8-mile shoreline offers multiple fishing opportunities, whether you’re looking to fish near shallow areas or deeper waters.
Getting to Sixth Lake is simple, with access provided by the New York Route 28 DEC hard launch, which makes it easy for anglers to launch powerboats. The lake is connected to Seventh Lake through a channel that runs under the bridge on 7th Lake Road (Route 13), which broadens the fishing potential by linking two bodies of water. Additionally, the creek outlet to Fifth Lake offers even more fishing possibilities.
New York State Fishing Lakes, Rivers, and Streams
Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
In the spring, anglers on Sixth Lake can take full advantage of the brown trout’s active feeding patterns, especially in the shallow waters near Inlet, NY. These areas are prime spots, as the trout gather to feed more actively during the warmer months. To effectively target these fish, the Chornobyl Ant fly is a standout choice. With its lifelike appearance and erratic movement, this versatile fly mimics the insects that are abundant in the water during spring, making it irresistible to brown trout.
For those looking to land rainbow trout, the Olive Dancer fly is an equally reliable option. This fly has consistently proven effective on Sixth Lake, as its subtle movements and natural colors are perfect for enticing rainbow trout to strike.
Yellow perch also make a strong showing in spring, and jigging is one of the most successful methods for catching them. Small spoons or jigs tipped with bait work particularly well on Sixth Lake, as the jigging motion attracts the perch’s natural curiosity. Adding bait to the lure enhances its appeal, triggering the perch’s predatory instincts. When fishing on light tackle, the strong fight from a yellow perch can provide an exhilarating challenge for anglers.
Spring fishing on Sixth Lake also requires the right equipment to maximize success. Using braided line can greatly improve your sensitivity and strength, especially when fishing in areas with heavy vegetation or debris. For more precise casting and better control, baitcasting reels are a must, offering both accuracy and distance to reach fish in hard-to-reach spots. Anglers will also benefit from a cutting board to prepare bait easily and handle catches without hassle.
To increase the chances of a productive day on the water, anglers should focus on warmer water areas, particularly shallow or sunlit spots where fish tend to gather. As the water temperature rises in the spring, fish become more active and feeding more consistently, making these areas key for both feeding and spawning. By using the right fly patterns, techniques, and gear, anglers on Sixth Lake can make the most of the spring season.
Summer (June to August)
As summer sets in, lake trout become a primary target for anglers, and the most effective method for catching them is trolling with downriggers, using spoons or plugs. The deeper sections of Sixth Lake, particularly in the middle of the lake’s widest area, west of Drakes Lane and east of Demings Main Street, are ideal spots for targeting lake trout. Anglers should focus on locating thermoclines and underwater structures, as these features can significantly increase the chances of a successful catch.
Yellow perch fishing remains productive throughout the summer, especially when using jigging techniques. Anglers should experiment with different colors and sizes of jigs to find what works best. Targeting drop-offs and submerged structures can yield the best results, as perch tend to congregate around these areas.
For those targeting pumpkinseed sunfish, the summer months offer an excellent opportunity to explore weed edges and submerged structures. These areas often hold sunfish, and anglers who focus their efforts here will likely see positive results. By adjusting tactics and targeting the right structures, anglers can maximize their summer fishing success on Sixth Lake.
Fall (September to November)
As the weather cools, lake trout fishing continues to be a solid choice, particularly near rocky structures and deeper sections of the lake. Trolling with spoons or plugs remains effective, as lake trout are drawn to these areas during their feeding periods.
Yellow perch fishing picks up as the fish become more active and move toward shallower waters in preparation for winter. Jigging is still a reliable method, but anglers should focus on using natural-colored jigs that mimic the movement of baitfish to attract the perch.
Additionally, casting and retrieving artificial baits near submerged trees and structures can be a great way to draw in various species, offering more variety to the angler’s catch.
Winter (December to February)
In winter, lake trout fishing shifts to deeper waters, where positioning becomes even more critical. For ice fishing, tip-ups are a key tool, allowing anglers to present live bait or artificial lures at different depths beneath the ice. The quiet, frozen landscape hides a bustling underwater environment, so focusing on areas near submerged structures or known feeding zones can improve success.
Yellow perch continue to bite through the winter, especially around drop-offs and submerged structures, making jigging a solid choice. Black bullheads can also be targeted during the winter months, typically using worms or cut bait in deeper holes.
As with all winter activities, safety is paramount. Before heading out onto the ice, it’s essential to check ice thickness, and using shelters and heaters can make the winter fishing experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
What Sixth Lake is Known For
Located in Inlet, NY, Sixth Lake is part of the scenic Fulton Chain of Lakes. Unlike its larger neighbor, Seventh Lake, Sixth Lake is dammed at its western end, creating a flow into Fifth Lake. The channel connecting the two lakes offers a more peaceful environment, setting Sixth Lake apart from the more active first four lakes in the chain.
Sixth Lake is a popular fishing spot, with a variety of species including smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, lake trout, and landlocked salmon. These diverse fishing opportunities make the lake a top choice for anglers. The lake also features a couple of islands that are ideal for fishing, especially for trout. Accessible by boat or from the banks, these islands provide quiet, secluded spots for anglers looking to get away from the crowds.
Nearby, Seventh Lake is known for its state boat launch near Buck Hollow, where Buck Creek meets the lake. This area is popular for swimming and offers scenic views that are well-preserved. For those visiting Sixth Lake, the nearby Drakes Inn in Inlet is a great spot to unwind. Located off Route 28 between Carp Drive and Drake’s Lane, Drakes Inn offers a relaxed atmosphere and a varied menu, providing a perfect end to a day of fishing or exploring the lakes.
Whether enjoying the peacefulness of Sixth Lake, fishing its islands, or relaxing at Drakes Inn, visitors can experience a blend of natural beauty and local hospitality.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Located in Inlet, NY, at the eastern tip of Fourth Lake, the area offers a route through a series of interconnected lakes for fishermen and boaters. The transition from Fifth Lake to Sixth Lake requires a portage, where boats are carried overland to bypass natural obstacles like waterfalls or rapids.
A narrow strait connects Sixth Lake to Seventh Lake, with another portage leading to Eighth Lake. This route provides access to a variety of fishing and boating opportunities across the lakes.
