New York is often regarded as an abundant bass-fishing state as the bass population has increased in most waters of the state. The bass season in New York runs from the third Saturday in June to the end of November.
However, before embarking on your fishing trip, there are a few things to consider to ensure a fun and safe day on the water.
Checking weather and water conditions is important before heading out on the boat. By checking the local weather forecast or the National Weather Service, you can collect the relevant information needed before heading out on the water to avoid potential hazards that may put yourself and others on board at risk.
You will also need to bring a chart for your routes, an essential marine navigation tool.
With these weather research and navigation tools, you’re almost ready to hit the water for your next fishing trip in New York! Where should you go? Here are four of our favorite bass fishing spots in New York.
1. Lake Erie
According to the Department of Environmental Conservation, the best smallmouth bass fishing in New York State and arguably the entirety of the United States can be found in Lake Erie.
Smallmouth bass are widely distributed within the lake, typically between two and four pounds. The usual hotspots for bass are along rocky structures and drop-offs in 15-35 feet of water.
2. Black Lake
Black Lake can often be overlooked amid the many choices of fishing holes, but this largemouth and smallmouth spot should be on your list. It is quite shallow, with the maximum depth hitting only 40 feet, so navigation should be handled cautiously.
National publications have rated Black Lake among the top ten bass waters in the country, and it hosts many fishing events throughout the year. Often, largemouths will be found in shallower, warmer bays, while smallmouths can be found swimming in the drop-offs.
Check out the mouth of the Indian River, around the shoreline of Big Bay, Bullhead, and Conger Islands.
3. Oneida Lake
Oneida Lake is in the center of New York State, northeast of Syracuse and the Great Lakes. The lake’s bottom is the perfect environment for largemouth and smallmouth bass, consisting of reefs and rocky bars. However, the introduction of zebra mussels has impacted the water clarity, allowing the sun to penetrate and creating more vegetation for the bass to thrive.
While looking for that honey hole, don’t forget to look around and take in the beautiful scenery this lake offers. It was created over 12,000 years ago after the Ice Age ended. It was originally a vast inland sea called Lake Iroquois, which covered much of Central New York.
4. St. Lawrence River
A variety of different fish species can be found here, including small and largemouth bass, during your next fishing venture. This river ranks as the largest east-west river in North America as it flows across the top of St. Lawrence County, forming the border between New York State and the Province of Ontario.
A Canadian license is required in Ontario waters, so be sure to bring along your river charts to know where you’re fishing.
Bronzebacks are the river’s “summer fish,” which you can find along mainland points, island shorelines, rocky areas, and large flats. In the early season, spinners, surface bait, and tipped jigs work well. As you move to the later season and deeper water, live bait such as minnows or crawfish work far better.
As for largemouth bass, the water temperature isn’t as suited for this species. So, the early mornings are the best time to find them in the backwaters of most large bays. Autumn is classified as the most abundant time of year for largemouths.
Stay Safe On Your Boat When Bass Fishing in New York
There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to bass fishing in New York. There really is no shortage of fishing spots; it’s just important to note the season best for each species and the ideal spots where they hang out.
It’s also wise to consider the safety tips before leaving to ensure you feel confident when heading out on the water. Before heading out on your boat, make sure you have your boater education card and the safety knowledge that comes with it!
To enjoy more safe boating and fishing trips, take the BOATsmart! boater education course for New York. You’ll learn critical safety practices to protect yourself and others while on your boat, plus you’ll meet the requirements for your boating license.
Hopefully, you have some luck in these fishing spots in New York and have an epic fishing story to bring back home!
Originally published in June 2018. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy September 18, 2024.
