Fishing Lake George
AKA: Queen of American Lakes
Popular Fish Species Lake George, NY
Lake Trout Fishing
Year round, fishing for lake trout in Lake George is often quite good and the fish are plentiful. These large trout prefer water below 60 degrees, however they can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental assistance to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish and other small fish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.
Landlocked Atlantic Salmon Fishing
In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in Lake George has grown in popularity. Trolling with spinners, live or cut bait, spinnerbaits and diving lures will all catch salmon. Use electronics to identify the preferred depth for the day. Landlocked salmon are stocked by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to maintain the fishery. Known as the “king of fish”, Atlantic salmon can survive in both fresh and saltwater, which means they are anadromous. They are renowned for their impressive athleticism, and delightful taste. Landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes exhibit similar behaviors to their sea-run counterparts, including feeding frenzies and impressive displays of strength when hooked. Anglers most often target landlocked salmon by trolling open water. Atlantic salmon that are confined to freshwater environments take residence in the deep cool waters of the main lake.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Lake George, with fish over 3 pounds very common. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good when they move to shallow water. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around any sort of rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, when the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies. Other times, focus your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, lake trout, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, Atlantic salmon, chain pickerel and northern pike at Lake George in New York.
Lake George Fishing Video
Marinas and boat launch ramps serve the public at Lake George, a 28,000-acre lake in the east-central part of the state in the Adirondack region. Come rent a boat, or bring your own, for a day of boating and fishing.
Lake George, located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, is a captivating destination for fishing enthusiasts. Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, Lake George offers a diverse fishery that appeals to anglers of all levels. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for both recreational and sport fishing.
One of the prized fish species in Lake George is the lake trout, also known as "lakers." These fish are known for their impressive size and their preference for deeper, colder waters. Anglers target lake trout by trolling with downriggers, using spoons or flasher-fly combinations. These strong-fighting fish provide an exciting challenge and the opportunity for memorable catches.
Lake George is also renowned for its populations of smallmouth bass and largemouth bass. Anglers can find these bass species along rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and near weed beds. Techniques such as casting with jigs, soft plastics, or crankbaits are effective in enticing these hard-hitting and acrobatic bass. The combination of the scenic beauty and the thrilling bass fishing opportunities make Lake George a favorite among anglers.
Other fish species found in Lake George include northern pike, yellow perch, panfish such as bluegill and pumpkinseed, as well as walleye. These species provide additional angling diversity and attract a wide range of anglers. Casting with spoons, spinnerbaits, or using live bait are common techniques used to target these species.
Lake George in New York offers a captivating fishing experience with its diverse fish species and scenic beauty. Whether targeting lake trout, bass, pike, or panfish, anglers can enjoy the thrill of the chase and the rewards of a successful catch. Boating and camping amenities further enhance the outdoor experience, making Lake George an enticing destination for anglers and nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable and impressive fishing adventure.
Most who come for a day return for an extended vacation. There are over 175 miles of shoreline for bass anglers to explore and sightseers to enjoy in this natural beauty setting. Landlocked salmon, lake trout, perch and crappie are very popular. Additionally this is one the top bass fishing destinations in the state. Bring a boat or rent one at the lake for water sports, boating or fishing. Lodging, camping, dining, shopping and marinas are close at hand to serve the public. In winter, ice fishing can produce nice catches of lake trout, landlocked salmon, and yellow perch.
Primary fish species residing in Lake George
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake George 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 Lake George, with marinas and boat launches available for easy access to the water. Anglers can explore the various sections of the lake, discover productive fishing spots, and enjoy the scenic beauty that surrounds them. The lake's clear waters and scenic islands make it an ideal location for pleasure boating, water skiing, or simply cruising and admiring the picturesque landscapes.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Bolton Boat Rentals
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
518 644-9941
Chic's Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
518 644-2170
F R Smith & Sons Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
518 644-5181
Kayak Lake George
Rentals: Kayaks
518 302-6005
Thunderbird Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
518 668-9086
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Dunham's Bay Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Bay Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.
Lake George Million Dollar Beach Boat Launch
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off Beach Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved lots of parking.
Marinas
Bolton Landing Marina
215 Ballard Road
Wilton, New York 12831
518 644-3474
Brodie's Lakeside Marina
3686 Lake Shore Drive
Lake George, NY 12845
518 685-3578
Castaway Marina
2546 Route 9L
Queensbury, NY 12804
518 656-3636
Dunham's Bay Marina
2036 Bay Rd.
Lake George, NY 12845
518 744-2627
Fischers Marina
1215 Pilot Knob Road
Kattskill Bay, NY 12844
518 656-9981
FR Smith & Sons Marina
36 Sagamore Rd
Bolton Landing, NY 12814
518 644-5181
Norowal Marina
21 Sagamore Rd
Bolton Landing, NY 12814
518 644-3741
Thunderbird Marina
3908 Lake Shore Drive
Diamond Point, NY 12824
518 668-9086
Fishing Guides On Lake George
Justy-Joe Fishing Charters on Lake George - salmon, trout
Ziehnert Guide Service - trout, salmon, bass
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a New York Fishing License.
Camping facilities are available near Lake George, providing an opportunity for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Campers can enjoy peaceful evenings under starry skies, grill freshly caught fish over a campfire, and appreciate the tranquility of the area. The camping options range from primitive campsites to more developed campgrounds, catering to different preferences and levels of comfort.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Lake George RV Park - 518 792-3775
Lake George Battleground State Campground - 518 668-3348
Hearthstone Point Campground - 518 668-5193
Adirondack Camping Village - 518 668-5226
King Phillips Campground & Resort - 518 668-5763
Lake George NY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake George
Bayview Marina & Suites
4762 Lake Shore Drive
Bolton Landing, NY 12814
518 796-9428
Fishing lakes in each state.
091824
Lake George in NY
NEW YORK
Fishing for landlocked salmon, lake trout and bass in east-central NY.
