Fishing Chautauqua Lake
AKA: Lake Chautauqua
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch and muskie at Chautauqua Lake in New York.
One of the top bass-fishing lakes in NY, Chautauqua Lake is a 13,000-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, at Chautauqua. There are two basins with over 40 miles of shoreline wrapping this fertile fishery, with plenty of weeds and aquatic vegetation near shore at both ends of the lake.
Lake Video
Chautauqua Lake, nestled in the southwestern region of New York, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts seeking a diverse and rewarding angling experience. Spanning over 13,000 acres, this picturesque lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. Chautauqua Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers of all levels.
One of the most sought-after fish species in Chautauqua Lake is the muskellunge, also known as the muskie. These large predatory fish offer a thrilling challenge for anglers, with the potential to reach impressive sizes. Trolling with large crankbaits, casting with bucktail spinners, or using live bait such as suckers or large shiners are effective techniques for targeting muskies in the lake. Chautauqua Lake has gained recognition for its reputation as a premier muskie fishing destination.
In addition to muskellunge, Chautauqua Lake is known for its populations of walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, and panfish species such as bluegill and crappie. Walleye, a prized game fish, can be targeted using techniques like trolling with worm harnesses, jigging with minnows, or casting with crankbaits. Largemouth and smallmouth bass provide exciting opportunities for bass anglers, with various techniques such as topwater fishing, finesse presentations, or flipping and pitching around vegetation.
In summary, Chautauqua Lake in New York provides an exceptional fishing experience with its diverse fish species and stunning landscapes. Whether targeting muskies, walleye, bass, or panfish, anglers can find exciting challenges and rewarding catches in the lake's waters. Boating and camping amenities further enhance the outdoor experience, making Chautauqua Lake a captivating destination for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The lake supports healthy populations of bass, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch and muskie, and is known for big muskie and quality largemouth and smallmouth bass. Spring and fall are ideal times to fish the shorelines and shallow areas. In summer as the lake warms, many of the fish will move to deeper water. In winter, when the ice is safe, Chautauqua is an excellent ice fishing lake. Walleye, perch and crappie are the popular species through the ice. More than a half dozen boat launch ramps are scattered around the lake, and multiple marinas provide a host of products and services for the boating and fishing visitors. Much of the shoreline is lined with private property, many with boat docks. Anglers wishing to fish from the bank can find access at many areas around the lake, including near boat ramps, parks and camping areas.
Primary fish species residing in Chautauqua Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Chautauqua Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Chautauqua Lake, with boat ramps and marinas available for easy access to the water. Anglers can explore different areas of the lake, find productive fishing spots, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The lake's calm waters make it suitable for various water activities, including water skiing, tubing, or simply cruising to appreciate the beautiful scenery.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Ashville Bay Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
716 763-6676
Boatworks
Rentals: Pontoon boats
716 487-9095
Chautauqua Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
716 753-3913
Holiday Harbor Boat Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
716 484-7175
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Lakewood Community Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, south side, off E Terrace Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Long Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Long Point Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Lucille Ball Memorial Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, south side, off Dunham Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
McCrea Point Park & Public Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the far southeast corner of the lake, off Jones and Gifforn Avenue, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Prendergast Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Prendergast Blvd, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Marinas
Chautauqua Marina
104 W Lake Rd
Mayville, NY 14757
716 753-3913
Snug Harbor Marina
5822 Snug Harbor Road
Mayville, NY 14757
716 789-3535
Click here for a New York Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available near Chautauqua Lake, offering opportunities for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Campers can enjoy the serenity of the area, grill freshly caught fish, and spend evenings under the starry sky, creating cherished memories in this idyllic setting.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Wildwood Acres Campground - 716 386-7037
Camp Prendergast Campground - 716 789-3485
Creek-N-Lake Camp Campground - 716 753-7757
Chautauqua Lake KOA Holiday Campground - 716 386-3804
Peachie's Lakeside Camping - 716 640-1068
Camp Chautauqua Campground - 716 789-3435
Chautauqua Lake NY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Chautauqua Lake
Long Point State Park
4459 NY-430
Bemus Point, NY 14712
716 386-2722
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Chautauqua Lake in New York.
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Fishing for bass, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch and muskie at Chautauqua Lake in southwest NY.