Fishing Skaneateles Lake
AKA: The Roof Garden of the Lakes
Popular Fish Species Skaneateles Lake, NY
Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Smallmouth bass are the most sought-after species at Skaneateles Lake, 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.
Chain Pickerel Fishing
Chain pickerel prefer to weedy areas of lakes and rivers. They ambush baitfish and sunfish which requires cover for them to hide within. Submerged aquatic vegetation, brush, fallen tree limbs, or structures such as rock piles, bridge pilings, rip-rap, or debris. Skaneateles Lake has a very healthy population of these toothy critters, many approaching 30 inches and exceeding 5 pounds. Unlike many freshwater fish species, chain pickerel do not school up. They tend to be loners. Once you catch one, find other, spots with similar cover and depth to fish. Flashy spoons, live minnows, and bait-imitating crankbaits all work well. For added excitement, try fishing topwater lures over vegetation areas. Topwater lures that mimic wounded baitfish are very tempting to these predators. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing can get very exciting with these big pike.
Landlocked Atlantic Salmon Fishing
In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in Skaneateles Lake 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, lake trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed, rock bass, yellow perch, Atlantic salmon and chain pickerel at Skaneateles Lake in New York.
Skaneateles Lake Fishing Video
17 miles long, 8,900 surface acres, and 34 miles of shoreline make Skaneateles Lake an awesome place for a weekend fishing trip or an extended family vacation. Located in the central part of the state, Skaneateles Lake attracts anglers with an interest in catching bass, crappie, walleye, trout, sunfish, perch, salmon and pickerel.
Skaneateles Lake, nestled in the Finger Lakes region of NY, is a pristine and picturesque destination for fishing enthusiasts. Known for its clear blue waters and scenic beauty, Skaneateles Lake offers a tranquil fishing experience along with breathtaking surroundings.
One of the primary fish species in Skaneateles Lake is the lake trout. These deep-dwelling fish are known for their impressive size and their preference for colder waters. Anglers can target lake trout by trolling with downriggers, using spoons or flasher-fly combinations. The deeper sections of Skaneateles Lake provide ideal habitat for these strong and powerful fish, offering an exciting challenge for anglers seeking a trophy catch.
Rainbow trout and brown trout are also present in Skaneateles Lake. These trout species can be caught using techniques such as trolling with stickbaits or spoons, casting with spinners or crankbaits, or fly fishing with streamers. The trout fishing opportunities in Skaneateles Lake attract anglers of all levels, and the lake's pristine backdrop adds to the overall appeal of the fishing experience.
Skaneateles Lake is also home to smallmouth bass, which are highly sought-after by anglers. These hard-fighting fish can be found near rocky shorelines, drop-offs, and submerged structures. Anglers can use techniques such as casting with jigs, soft plastics, or crankbaits to entice these feisty bass. Smallmouth bass in Skaneateles Lake are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, providing an exhilarating angling experience.
Other fish species found in Skaneateles Lake include yellow perch, panfish such as bluegill and pumpkinseed, and the occasional northern pike. These species provide additional angling diversity and opportunities for anglers to explore. Yellow perch and panfish are popular targets for family fishing trips or for those seeking a more relaxed fishing experience. Anglers can use techniques such as bobber fishing with worms, small jigs, or live bait to target these species.
Skaneateles Lake in New York offers a tranquil fishing experience with its variety of fish species and stunning natural beauty. Whether targeting trout, bass, perch, 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 Skaneateles Lake an enticing destination for anglers and nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable fishing adventure in a serene and picturesque setting.
Smallmouth bass, rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon are the top draws with quality schools of each residing in the lake. Ice fishing can be good, once safe ice sets in, for lake trout and yellow perch.
Primary fish species residing in Skaneateles Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Skaneateles Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Skaneateles Lake, with public boat launches available for easy access to the water. Anglers can explore the lake's pristine beauty, find productive fishing spots, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. The calm waters of Skaneateles Lake are also perfect for recreational boating, kayaking, and canoeing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the lake.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Skaneateles Lake Boat Rental
Rentals: Pontoon boats
315 664-4184
Skaneateles Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
315 685-5095
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Andrew Fuller Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located at the southern end of the lake, off Glen Haven Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
DEC Boat Launch, Skaneateles Lake
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Nys Boat Launch Fire Lane 15, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Skaneateles Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Fire Lane 44, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.
Marinas
Skaneateles Marina
1938 W Lake Road
Skaneateles, NY 13152
315 685-5095
The Glen Haven Marina
7533-7249 E Lake Rd
Homer, NY 13077
607 749-3779
Fishing Guides On Skaneateles Lake
Lucky Buck Fishing - trout, salmon, bass, perch
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 near Skaneateles Lake offer opportunities for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to extend their stay and fully embrace the natural surroundings. Campers can enjoy peaceful evenings under starry skies, cook freshly caught fish over a campfire, and wake up to the sounds of nature. The camping options range from primitive campsites to more developed campgrounds, providing different levels of comfort to suit various preferences.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Otisco Lake Campgrounds and Marina - 315 636-9925
Skaneateles Lake NY Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Skaneateles Lake
Skaneateles Marina
1938 W Lake Rd
Skaneateles, NY 13152
315 685-5095
Fishing lakes in each state.
091324
Skaneateles Lake in NY
NEW YORK
Fishing for rainbow trout, walleye and smallmouth bass in central NY.
