Explore Third Lake Fishing: Seasons, Tips, & Historic Charm

Third Lake, located in the Adirondack Mountains (ADK), offers anglers a wide range of fishing options. The lake is home to Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, yellow perch, sunfish, lake trout, northern pike, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass, providing a variety of species to target. Whether you’re fishing for trout in the deeper waters or aiming for bass, Third Lake offers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. It’s a prime spot within the Fulton Chain Lakes, making it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels.

Third Lake, in the town of Webb, Herkimer County, is special among the Fulton Chain Lakes, offering a peaceful and diverse fishing experience. Covering a surface area of 230.55 acres, this lake is part of the Black River watershed and boasts an extensive 4.62 miles of shoreline. 

Anglers can conveniently launch their boats at the DEC hard launch off NY-Route 28 on the east end of Fourth Lake, accessing Third Lake through the connecting channel. Third Lake, with a mean depth of 31 feet, distinguishes itself within the Fulton Chain Lakes. 

This moderate depth adds an interesting dimension to the fishing experience, offering a balance between the shallower First Lake and the deeper Second Lake. 

New York State Best Fishing Lakes, Rivers, and Streams

Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (March to May)

As the ice thaws and spring breathes new life into Third Lake, anglers can target a variety of species, with a focus on lake trout as well as northern pike in March. Lake trout, favoring cold waters, can often be found near drop-offs and rocky structures.

Anglers targeting northern pike and lake trout on Third Lake can use live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers, experimenting with trolling at different depths to locate these cold-water predators. For northern pike, which are known for their aggressive nature, focus on shallower waters where they patrol, then move deeper as they grow. Casting large spoons, jerkbaits, or live bait under a bobber can trigger strikes from these powerful predators. Having a fishing net on hand is crucial for safely landing larger pike and avoiding damage to the fish or gear.

Lake trout, a native species in Third Lake, prefer cold, well-oxygenated waters and display a range of colorations, from light green to nearly black, depending on their depth. These trout are often found at various depths, making it important to use the right techniques, such as deep-water trolling or vertical jigging. Carrying a pair of pliers is essential when handling lake trout, as they can be difficult to unhook, especially when using larger baits or lures.

Summer (June to August):

As the sun warms the waters, bass, perch, and sunfish become primary targets for fishermen on Third Lake. Bass, particularly largemouth and smallmouth, seek shelter around submerged structures and weed beds. 

Topwater lures, plastic worms, and jigs are effective choices for enticing bass strikes. Perch and sunfish, abundant in the warmer months, can be targeted with small jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics. 

 Largemouth bass in Third Lake can exhibit a variety of feeding behaviors, from ambushing prey near structures to aggressively striking topwater lures during dawn and dusk.

Fall (September to November):

As temperatures cool, fall on Third Lake brings fishing opportunities for targeting a mix of species, including bass and panfish. Bass continue to linger around structures, and slow presentations with jigs or soft plastics mimic the movements of prey, triggering strikes.

Panfish, including perch and sunfish, may move to slightly deeper waters. Anglers can use small jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics to attract bites.

Additionally, exploring the shallows near rocky areas may yield encounters with lake trout, as they become more active in preparation for the colder months.

In autumn, lake trout fishing in Third Lake showcases heightened aggressiveness in their feeding behavior, rendering them more responsive to lures and providing an exhilarating challenge for anglers. 

Winter (December to February – Ice Fishing Permitted):

Third Lake is renowned for its excellent ice fishing opportunities, particularly for perch and sunfish during the winter months. However, anglers should be aware that ice density can fluctuate, so it’s essential to always check the ice thickness and monitor conditions closely. Safety is paramount, and wearing Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and carrying necessary marine safety equipment is a must. With proper preparation and attention to ice safety, Third Lake offers a productive and enjoyable ice fishing experience.

Tiny jigs tipped with spikes (maggots) or soft plastics prove effective in attracting these smaller but plentiful species. Ice fishing-specific rods with sensitive tips aid in detecting subtle bites beneath the frozen surface.

What Third Lake is Known For

Situated between Second Lake and Fourth Lake, it provides seamless access to the larger waterway, making it a popular spot for anglers, paddlers, and boaters. Known for its cold-water species, Third Lake is especially popular for ice fishing in the winter, with abundant yellow perch and sunfish. It’s stocked each spring by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) with rainbow trout and landlocked salmon, enhancing its fishing potential.

Although much of the shoreline is private property, the lake is accessible via boat launches on Second and Fourth Lakes, and it’s part of the larger Fulton Chain Wild Forest, which offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and portaging. Third Lake’s blend of recreational options, scenic views, and historical significance make it a standout destination within the Adirondacks.

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

Access to Third Lake in the Fulton Chain is primarily facilitated through a connecting channel located at the eastern end of Fourth Lake, near the town of Inlet, NY in Hamilton County.

Inlet is the town that is geographically positioned at the “head of Fourth Lake.” It serves as a notable point of access for those looking to explore the subsequent lakes in the Fulton Chain.

Inlet is a small town with various amenities, including Kalil’s Grocery Store, a post office, a realtor’s office, restaurants, and other stores. The presence of these facilities makes Inlet a convenient base for individuals seeking boating and fishing access to Third Lake and the rest of the Fulton Chain. 

Boaters and outdoor enthusiasts can use Inlet as a starting point for their journey, ensuring that they have the necessary supplies and services before venturing into the chain of lakes.