Explore Raquette Lake: Fishing Seasons, Records, Tactics & Access Points
The various fish species inhabiting Raquette Lake include largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, sunfish, brook trout, land-locked salmon, rainbow trout, lake trout, chain pickerel, perch, bullhead, whitefish, smelt, and suckers. An annual stocking of lake trout and brook trout adds to the appeal of fishing in Raquette Lake, ensuring a sustainable population of these prized species.
Raquette Lake, in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains in Hamilton County in New York State, stands out as one of the best fishing destinations in the region. Spanning approximately six miles in length with an impressive 99 miles of shoreline, it proudly claims the title of the largest natural lake in the Central Adirondacks. The lake’s maximum depth just under 100 feet adds to its appeal for fishing enthusiasts.
Northeast of the town of Inlet and south of Long Lake, Raquette Lake serves as a NY fishing hotspot for fishermen of all ages. Raquette Lake is connected to Long Lake, forming a water system that holds a variety of species.
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Seasonal Fishing Techniques
Spring (March to May)
As the spring thaw commences on Raquette Lake, brook trout take the spotlight. Head to the lake’s inlet streams, where cooler temperatures prevail, and brook trout become more active.
In spring it is best to cast near the shoreline with artificial lures simulating insects or opt for live bait presentations. Brook trout are known to feed on insects and smaller fish during their spawning season. Light spinning rods and spinning reels with 4-6 lb test braid line can enhance your chances of a successful catch.
Summer (June to July)
During the summer on Raquette Lake, the best time to catch largemouth bass is at dawn and dusk. Use a strategic approach by targeting areas with submerged structures such as fallen trees and underwater vegetation, where bass often hide. A fish finder or sonar device can help locate these structures and detect fish activity below the surface.
Local anglers have reported great success using topwater lures in frog patterns, recieving huge top water blow ups. Alternatively, choose the finesse of plastic worms and jigs for deeper presentations.
Fall (August to November)
As fall sets in on Raquette Lake, it’s time to focus on lake trout fishing. Head to the Raquette Lake’s deeper spots and underwater slopes, where the trout prefer cooler waters. Use downriggers to control your lure depth, mimicking the small fish they like to eat.
The northern portion of the lake between Green Point and Bluff Point is the deepest part of the lake with a large hole reaching 90 to 100 feet deep. Pay attention to water temperature changes to figure out the best depth for lake trout. Fall is a season that requires careful planning to present your lures just right for a successful fishing trip on Raquette Lake.
In the fall, yellow perch are active in Raquette Lake and can be found in shallow areas, especially near rocky zones and weed edges.
Use light coarse tackle with small jigs, spinners, or live bait like worms or minnows to increase your chances. Perch often school together, so once you locate one, you’re likely to find more.
Winter (December to February)
Ice fishermen tend to target yellow perch during the winter season. The area right out from the Hamlet of Raquette Lake out to Harding Island seems to be popular are for them, likely due to its ease of access.
When ice fishing for yellow perch on Raquette Lake, mobility and simplicity are key. Use small jigs tipped with live bait such as minnows, grubs, or spikes (maggots) to attract bites. Drill multiple holes and move frequently to locate active schools, watching your sonar closely to track depth changes and spot fish.
A simple perch rig works best. Use a quality run rig kit with a 1–2 oz lead, a 4–6 lb fluorocarbon hook length, and a size 4–8 hook. This setup is effective for targeting perch under the ice and can significantly improve your catch rate during the winter months.
What Raquette Lake is Known For
Raquette Lake, in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, gained widespread recognition for harboring one of the best freshwater records in the state—a record-setting brook trout. In a feat on June 7, 2021, Tom Yacovella, an experienced angler with over 52 years of brook trout fishing, successfully landed a massive brook trout weighing 5 pounds and 4 ounces, measuring 21 inches in length with an impressive girth of 15 inches.
Yacovella’s careful approach to brook trout fishing—paying close attention to lure selection and adapting to specific conditions—led to a record-breaking catch. The fish has been officially certified by the state, exceeding the previous record set by Jesse Yousey in 2006 by five ounces. This catch highlights Raquette Lake’s status as one of New York’s top destinations for brook trout.
Raquette Lake also holds historical significance as part of the “Highway of the Adirondacks,” a vital travel route once used by canoes and guide boats to navigate the region’s interconnected waterways. Today, this route remains important as part of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and the Adirondack Canoe Classic, a 90-mile, three-day race from Old Forge to Saranac Lake.
Raquette Lake plays an important role in the region’s interconnected water systems and is known for its scenic beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The local community regularly hosts events that showcase the area’s natural surroundings and provide a wide range of recreational activities for visitors.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Raquette Lake offers several convenient access points for boating and fishing, making it easy to enjoy the lake’s pristine waters within the Adirondack Park. One primary access is the hard surface boat launch and public dock on Main Street (County Route 2), directly across from the Raquette Lake Supply Co. General Store. This launch accommodates various boat types and provides access to Raquette Lake’s 99 miles of scenic shoreline. Gas pumps are located approximately 30 feet from the ramp.
To reach this site, take Route 28 to County Route 2 and head northwest into the Hamlet of Raquette Lake. After about a quarter mile, bear right past the Tap Room and General Store—the launch will be directly ahead.
Another option is Brown Tract Pond, located at the Brown Tract Pond Campground & Day Use Area. This access point includes parking for 10 vehicles and requires a day-use fee during the campground’s operating season. Note that motorized boats are not allowed here, preserving a quiet and peaceful setting.
Both sites provide excellent opportunities to explore Raquette Lake’s natural surroundings, whether you’re boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the Adirondack wilderness.
