A Beginner's Guide to Fishing on Lake George

Lake George, often called the "Queen of American Lakes," is not only famous for its stunning beauty and crystal-clear waters but also for its rich fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting for a weekend, fishing on Lake George is an experience like no other. This guide will walk you through everything a beginner angler needs to know about fishing here, from the best times of year to cast your line, the equipment you’ll need, and the types of fish you can expect to catch.

Why Lake George is a Great Place to Fish

Lake George is a 32-mile-long natural lake nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. With over 170 islands and deep waters that can reach up to 200 feet, it’s a diverse fishing spot teeming with species. The lake is home to a wide range of fish including smallmouth bass, lake trout, and northern pike. The clean, cold waters provide an ideal habitat for both warm and cold-water fish species.

The Best Times to Fish on Lake George

Fishing is a year-round activity on Lake George, but the time of year you fish will affect the species you’re likely to catch, the techniques you’ll need to use, and the overall fishing experience.

Spring (April to June): This is one of the best times of the year for fishing on Lake George, as the fish are emerging from winter dormancy and are actively feeding. During the spring, the water is still cold, making it perfect for catching lake trout and landlocked salmon. Bass season opens in the third week of June, making late spring and early summer a great time for bass fishing. This season also sees fewer boaters on the lake, allowing for a quieter fishing experience.

Summer (July to August): While fishing can be a bit slower in the summer due to increased water temperatures, this is prime time for bass fishing, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. Sunfish and perch are also abundant in the summer months, making this season perfect for family fishing trips. You’ll want to fish during the cooler hours of the day as fish tend to retreat to deeper, cooler waters in the heat of the day.

Fall (September to November): As the water begins to cool down again, fish become more active. Fall is an excellent time for lake trout and salmon fishing, with the bass season continuing until mid-November. The autumn scenery makes for an incredibly picturesque day out on the lake, and the fish are actively feeding to prepare for the winter months.

Winter (December to March): Ice fishing is a popular winter activity on Lake George. The lake usually freezes over by mid-January, allowing anglers to target lake trout, northern pike, and yellow perch. You’ll need to invest in some specific ice fishing gear, but it’s a thrilling and unique way to experience the lake.

Basic Fishing Equipment for Beginners

Fishing on Lake George doesn’t require a ton of fancy gear, especially if you’re just getting started. Here’s a list of basic equipment you’ll need for a successful fishing trip:

Rod and Reel: A medium-action spinning rod and reel combo is versatile and easy to use for beginners. A 6 to 7-foot rod is a good choice for Lake George, as it provides enough length to cast farther and feel the fish biting.

Fishing Line: Monofilament line in the 6 to 12-pound test range is perfect for most fishing on Lake George. If you’re targeting larger fish like northern pike or lake trout, you may want to go up to a 15-pound test line.

Hooks, Sinkers, and Bobbers: You’ll want a variety of hooks depending on the type of fish you’re after. For beginners, a size 6 or 8 hook will cover most species. Round sinkers and bobbers are also important for keeping your bait at the right depth.

Bait: Live bait such as worms, minnows, and leeches is a great option for Lake George. Artificial lures like crankbaits, spinners, and soft plastic worms can also be very effective, especially for bass and pike.

Tackle Box: A small tackle box to organize your hooks, lures, and other essentials is helpful to keep everything in one place.

Fishing License: Don’t forget that you’ll need a New York State fishing license if you’re over the age of 16. Licenses can be purchased online or at local retailers.

Best Bait and Lures for Lake George

The bait you use will depend on the species you’re targeting. Here are some of the most effective baits for the different types of fish found in Lake George:

Lake Trout: Live bait like shiners or suckers is great for lake trout. If you prefer using artificial lures, spoons and deep-diving crankbaits in silver or white are effective.

Bass (Smallmouth and Largemouth): Soft plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits work well for bass. If you’re using live bait, nightcrawlers and minnows are reliable choices.

Northern Pike: Large minnows or artificial lures like spoons and spinners work best for pike. They’re aggressive predators, so flashy lures that mimic injured fish are particularly effective.

Perch and Sunfish: Worms, small minnows, or pieces of nightcrawler on a small hook with a bobber are perfect for catching these smaller species.

Salmon: For landlocked salmon, try trolling with spoons, spinners, or plugs. Live bait such as shiners can also be very effective, particularly when trolling at deeper depths.

Hiring a Fishing Guide

If you’re new to fishing or just want to maximize your chances of catching fish, hiring a local fishing guide is a great option. Guides know the best spots, techniques, and times to fish, and they can offer valuable advice to make your trip more successful. Plus, they provide all the gear, so you don’t have to worry about equipment.

Here are a few well-regarded guides in the Lake George area:

Highliner Charter Fishing: Specializing in lake trout and salmon fishing, Captain Justin Mahoney has years of experience guiding trips on Lake George. His boat is fully equipped with the latest fishing gear, and he offers both half-day and full-day trips.

Lockhart Charter Fishing: Captain Mark Lockhart provides personalized fishing charters for anglers of all skill levels. His specialties include bass, pike, and perch fishing, and he’s known for his friendly and informative approach.

Justy Joe Charters: This charter service offers family-friendly trips focused on catching lake trout and salmon. The guides are knowledgeable and patient, making it a great option for beginners or those with kids.

Types of Fish You Can Expect to Catch

Lake George is home to a wide variety of fish species, giving anglers plenty of options depending on the time of year and the area of the lake they’re fishing. Here are some of the most common fish you can expect to find:

Lake Trout: These cold-water fish are most commonly found in the deeper parts of the lake. They can weigh anywhere from 2 to 15 pounds, with some even reaching 20 pounds or more.

Smallmouth Bass: Found in the rocky shallows, smallmouth bass are known for their strong fighting spirit. They’re a favorite target for many anglers during the summer months.

Largemouth Bass: Largemouth bass are usually found in weedy areas and around submerged structures. They’re a bit larger than smallmouth bass and can weigh up to 10 pounds.

Northern Pike: These predatory fish are found in the shallow weedy bays of Lake George. They can grow quite large, with some pike reaching lengths of 3 to 4 feet.

Landlocked Salmon: These fish are native to Lake George and are most commonly caught in the spring and fall. They’re prized for their delicious flavor and can be caught using trolling methods.

Yellow Perch: A popular catch for beginner anglers, yellow perch are abundant in the lake and can be caught year-round. They’re a great fish to target if you’re fishing with kids.

Sunfish: These small, colorful fish are easy to catch and fun for anglers of all ages. They’re found in the shallows and are especially active during the summer months.

Tips for a Successful Day on the Water

Plan Your Trip Around the Weather: Check the weather before heading out, as fish are more likely to bite when the weather is mild. Overcast days are often better for fishing than sunny days.

Be Patient: Fishing requires patience. You may not catch something right away, but persistence pays off. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Lake George while you wait for that bite.

Change Up Your Bait and Lures: If the fish aren’t biting, try switching up your bait or lure. Sometimes a small change can make a big difference.

Respect the Environment: Lake George is known for its pristine waters, so make sure to clean up after yourself and follow local fishing regulations to help preserve this beautiful ecosystem.

Conclusion

Fishing on Lake George is an unforgettable experience for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Whether you're looking to catch bass, pike, or lake trout, the "Queen of American Lakes" has something for everyone. With a bit of patience, the right gear, and maybe even the help of a local guide, you’ll be reeling in fish in no time. So grab your fishing rod, bait your hook, and enjoy a day on the water in one of the most picturesque spots in the Adirondacks!