Guide to Lake George Fishing: Seasonal Tips and Techniques
Lake George, located in the center of Adirondack Park, is one of the most accessible and productive fisheries in Upstate New York. The lake stretches 32 miles long, up to 3 miles wide, and reaches a maximum depth of 187 feet. Its 82-mile shoreline winds through Essex, Washington, and Warren Counties, with multiple access points and boat launches that make it easy for anglers to explore.
Lake George connects to nearby bodies of water, supporting a healthy, diverse fishery. Anglers can target lake trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, chain pickerel, yellow perch, bullhead, pumpkinseed, rock bass, smelt, and black crappie.
With its size, structure, and range of species, Lake George offers a reliable and rewarding fishing experience in a scenic and well-managed setting.
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Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March – May)
Spring on Lake George marks the beginning of an exciting fishing season. The main targets during this period include lake trout, which thrive in the cold and clean waters of the lake.
Lake trout are known for their toughness and can often be found in deeper pockets of Lake George. Trolling with downriggers and planerboards are a commonly employed technique during this season, especially in deeper areas.
Additionally, fishermen can try jigging off the side of the boat for a productive day’s fishing. While Bass fishing is closed during spring, it’s an opportune time to focus on species like yellow perch, usually on a wide variety of tackle, providing excellent opportunities for fishermen looking to enjoy the lake’s vibrant fishery.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is a prime time for fishing on Lake George, with various species becoming more active. Lake trout fishing remains strong, and trolling with downriggers continues to be effective. The lake is stocked with Atlantic salmon, offering anglers exciting battles.
Trolling close to the surface is a favored technique for salmon, and they are often caught high in the water column during summer, providing thrilling experiences for anglers. Bass fishing on Lake George becomes a highlight during summer, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass present.
Smallmouth bass, known for their exciting fights, are especially abundant. Fishing in warmer, shallower waters is recommended, and the keeper season usually opens in mid-June. The use of artificial lures and catch-and-release practices precedes the keeper season and runs from December, 1 – June 14. See NY DEC for regulations for details.
Fall (September – November)
Fall fishing on Lake George continues to be productive, with opportunities for a variety of species. Lake trout fishing remains productive, and trolling remains a reliable technique.
Landlocked salmon fishing is also good, and the bite can stay fair even as the waters freeze over during colder months. Black bass fishing (smallmouth and largemouth bass), particularly for smallmouth bass, continues to be exciting, with the keeper season lasting through November.
Additionally, fishermen can explore the lake for other species such as northern pike, chain pickerel, crappie, and more. Trolling for salmon and trout just off the shore becomes popular in September and October as these fish school off the creek mouths before their runs.
Winter (December – February)
The frozen expanse of the lake opens up unique opportunities for fishermen seeking a thrilling cold-weather fishing experience. One of the primary targets during the winter season are lake trout, which becomes more accessible through ice fishing.
Anglers can venture onto the frozen lake, equipped with PFDs, augers, ice shanties, and all the necessary gear for a successful ice fishing expedition. Without the need for a traditional boat, ice fishing allows fishermen the ability to explore various areas of the lake where lake trout are known to thrive.
Yellow perch, another commonly caught species, becomes a prized catch during the winter ice fishing season on Lake George. The serene setting of Lake George covered in snow creates a beautiful backdrop for fishermen as they try their luck at reeling in perch through the ice.
While the frozen lake takes center stage, anglers should also consider exploring the lake’s tributary streams during winter. Even in the coldest weather, these streams offer possibilities for fishing rainbow trout.
Anglers need to exercise caution and check for any open water at the mouths of tributaries, as occasional opportunities for steelhead fishing may arise.
What Lake George is Known For
Lake George is well known for its fishing achievements such as the time Rafal Pisarski, a skilled fisherman from Queens, NY, made a memorable catch on Lake George during Memorial Day weekend in 2006. Using a Banjo Plastic Minnow, Rafal managed to hook a massive northern pike.
The fish, lured by the bait’s presentation, put up a fierce fight. Despite the absence of a wire leader, luck favored Rafal, allowing him to land the pike. After capturing a few photos, he released the impressive catch back into the lake to continue its journey.
Lake George has a rich fishing history, providing enthusiasts with opportunities to catch various species. At one point, the lake held the New York state record for landlocked Atlantic salmon, weighing 19 pounds.
However, this record was later surpassed by Mike Dandino, who caught a 24-pound, 15-ounce Atlantic salmon on April 5, 1997, from Lake Ontario. Despite the changing records, Lake George remains a fantastic fishery, attracting anglers who may also contribute to the DEC’s Angler Diary program, and providing valuable information for managing the lake’s fish population.
Apart from its fishing draw, the Lake George region offers many activities and attractions including boating, swimming, tubing, scuba diving, canoeing, rafting, skiing, hiking, biking, golf, and even balloon flights.
The region also features amusement parks, a wax museum, steamboat rides, and more, making it an ideal destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking diverse recreational experiences. Whether fishing the lake’s pristine waters or exploring the surrounding Adirondack Mountains, Lake George provides a well-rounded experience for locals and visitors alike.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Lake George offers a variety of public access points, boat ramps, marinas, and launches that allow visitors to explore the stunning body of water. In the heart of Lake George Village, there are six public beaches available, including Shepard Park, Million Dollar Beach, and Usher Park along the eastern shore.
These beaches offer free access, complete with amenities such as bath houses, lifeguards, and food concessions. For those who prefer a leisurely stroll or want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, Lake George Village provides on-street parking at $2 per hour, payable in 15-minute increments.
The Bolton Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center frequently addresses the question of driving around Lake George, affirming that it is indeed possible and a beautiful trip that can be completed in a few hours. Rogers Rock Campground, located three miles north of the Hamlet of Hague on Route 9N, offers a hard surface boat ramp with year-round accessibility.
A day use fee is applicable during peak season, and the site accommodates parking for 24 cars and trailers. Northwest Bay Brook, situated four miles north of the Village of Bolton Landing on Route 9N, provides a DEC hand launch with parking for 15 cars.
Million Dollar Beach, a DEC launch in the Village of Lake George off Beach Road, is equipped with two launch lanes, 54 car and trailer parking spaces, and an additional 400 passenger vehicle spaces. Access requires a fee from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, and operational hours are 6 am to 8 pm.
Hague Town Beach, operated by the Town of Hague, features a hard surface ramp with a required fee/permit and parking for 15 cars. Mossy Point, a DEC launch off Black Point Road, 2 miles north of the Village of Ticonderoga on the east shore, offers a hard surface ramp, pumpout facilities, and parking for 100 cars and trailers, accessible for persons with disabilities.
