The 16 Best Fishing Lakes in New York

When it comes to finding the perfect fishing spot in New York, anglers are spoiled for choice with the abundance of fishing lakes scattered across the state. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to reel in your first catch, New York has something to offer for everyone.
From serene lakes nestled in the Adirondack Mountains to sprawling reservoirs teeming with fish, the Empire State is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Before you grab your gear and head out for a day on the water, take a look at our list of the best fishing lakes in New York to help you make an informed decision.
- Varied fish species
- Accessibility
- Boat rentals
- Scenic beauty
- Amenities (bathrooms, picnic areas)
Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax and enjoy nature or hoping to reel in a record-breaking catch, New York's fishing lakes have something for everyone. Discover the top fishing destinations in the state below and start planning your next fishing adventure!
- 1. Lake Erie
- 2. Lake Ontario
- 3. Lake Champlain
- 4. Keuka Lake
- 5. Seneca Lake
- 6. Lake George
- 7. Skaneateles Lake
- 8. Canandaigua Lake
- 9. Oneida Lake
- 10. Chautauqua Lake
- 11. Cayuga Lake
- 12. Black Lake
- 13. Saratoga Lake
- 14. Owasco Lake
- 15. Honeoye Lake
- 16. Van Cortlandt Lake

1. Lake Erie
Information and Reviews
- Beautiful lakefront with plenty of activities
- Great place for families to spend quality time together
- Well-maintained and clean facilities
- Breathtaking sunsets and picturesque views

2. Lake Ontario
Information and Reviews
Customer Reviews:
- A scenic haven with captivating history and picturesque surroundings.
- Very pretty with nice sand bars and beautiful cottages.
- A wonderful place to enjoy lunch with a stunning view.
- Perfect for boating with super clean water and beautiful landscapes.

3. Lake Champlain
Information and Reviews
- I have been sailing Lake Champlain for years. The beautiful mountains in the distance make it feel like sailing the Swiss Alps. The lake's history and challenging winds add to the excitement. - Reviewer 1
- Witnessing Lake Champlain freeze overnight was a magical experience during our Christmas stay. - Reviewer 2
- Exploring the lake on a kayak, paddle board, and bicycle was absolutely delightful. - Reviewer 3
- Our stay included visits to local breweries, hiking in Ausable Chasm, and exploring local farms. A great experience overall. - Reviewer 4
Whether you prefer adventurous water activities or simply relaxing on the shore, Lake Champlain has something for everyone. Its beauty and historical significance continue to captivate visitors, making it a must-visit destination.

4. Keuka Lake
Information and Reviews
- This is the greatest lake on the Northeast, offering warm water and less boat traffic compared to other lakes.
- Visitors can look forward to a beautiful and modern cottage rental experience with ample amenities and activities.
- Keuka Lake is regarded as family-friendly, with lifeguards present during the day.
Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, Keuka Lake is a top choice for creating memorable experiences.

5. Seneca Lake
Information and Reviews
- Visitors appreciate the beautiful blue hues of the lake and the minimal boat traffic, providing a serene atmosphere.
- Many mention the great state parks surrounding the lake, allowing for exploration and outdoor activities.
- Individuals enjoy the various wineries in the area, adding to the overall experience of visiting Seneca Lake.
Whether you're interested in boat rides, winery tours, or simply relaxing by the water, Seneca Lake has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the natural beauty and charm this destination has to offer.

6. Lake George
Information and Reviews
- Queen of America's Lakes with spectacular scenery and beauty
- Best enjoyed on a sunny day with nature at its best
- Gorgeous water, plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions along the mile-long boardwalk
- A charming place with clean accommodations, fantastic owners, and unforgettable lake rides
Whether visitors are seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, Lake George offers something for everyone to enjoy.

7. Skaneateles Lake
Information and Reviews
- The water is crystal clear, perfect for swimming and kayaking
- Plenty of shops and restaurants in the town for a complete weekend getaway
- Beautiful houses along the lake offer stunning views
- Great fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities
With a 4.8-star rating based on 155 reviews, Skaneateles Lake is a top choice for nature lovers and those seeking a serene escape in the heart of nature.

8. Canandaigua Lake
Information and Reviews
- Spectacular views and crystal-clear water make it a perfect spot for boating, skiing, fishing, swimming, and relaxation.
- Visitors love the gorgeous scenery and the opportunities for outdoor adventures.
- The surrounding area boasts charming towns, great restaurants, and breweries, adding to the overall experience.
Customers rave about Canandaigua Lake, with comments like "love this place," "beautiful energy," and "great times." Whether you're interested in admiring the landscape, engaging in water sports, or simply unwinding by the shore, Canandaigua Lake has something for everyone.

9. Oneida Lake
Information and Reviews
- Beautiful unspoiled location, perfect for family visits
- Great place for fishing, camping, boating, and snowmobiling
- Divine experience with clean facilities and tranquil surroundings
- Nice campground with great opportunities for boating and fishing
With a 4.8 rating, this picturesque destination in New York, USA, is definitely a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

10. Chautauqua Lake
Information and Reviews
- Visitors rave about the beauty of the lake, describing it as "beautiful" and "absolutely beautiful."
- Many enjoy engaging in outdoor activities such as fishing and swimming in the pristine waters of the lake.
- The quaint lake town surrounding Chautauqua Lake offers charming shops, a rich history, and a strong community vibe.
- Guests also appreciate the opportunity to stay in lake houses or campgrounds nearby for an immersive experience in nature.
Whether you are a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Chautauqua Lake is sure to leave you in awe of its natural splendor.

11. Cayuga Lake
Information and Reviews
- Boating on this lake is so fun. Calm and tranquil.
- Finger lakes! Nice boat ride! There was live music at the entry which made the place pretty lively.
- Beautiful lake by the finger lakes with clear waters!
- An amazing lake nestled in the hills of the Finger Lakes. State parks, boating, swimming, great fishing, vacation rentals, wineries and both seasonal and year-round homes. Ithaca is at the south end overlooking the water and Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge is at the other. Gorgeous all 4 seasons.
Customers also appreciate the various amenities surrounding the lake and the warm ambiance it offers. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventurous boating experience, Cayuga Lake has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of this natural wonder!

12. Black Lake
Information and Reviews
- Beautiful Lake with plenty of islands to explore
- Great fishing opportunities with 15 types of fish
- Perfect vacation destination with cabins available
- Tranquil and picturesque surroundings

13. Saratoga Lake
Information and Reviews
- I don’t we should miss this beautiful spot
- Beautiful lake with always something fun to see or do. There’s a super great Airbnb with Vicki DeAugustine!
- Saratoga Springs is the NYC of upstate NY! In addition to the upscale stores, amazing nightlife and the renowned horse racing track, it has this beautiful gem, the Saratoga Lake, just like NYC has the Hudson and East Rivers.
- Launched kayaks at Waterfront Park. Easy launch. Fun lake...but lots of boat traffic.

14. Owasco Lake
Information and Reviews
- Visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the lake.
- Many enjoy engaging in various water activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating on the tranquil waters.
- Guests appreciate the opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation that Owasco Lake provides.
- Some highlight the accessibility and recreational amenities available, making it a versatile destination for different interests.
Whether you are seeking a quiet retreat, an adventurous outing on the water, or simply a place to unwind and take in the natural splendor, Owasco Lake has something to offer for everyone. Gather your loved ones and embark on a memorable lakeside experience at this enchanting location.

15. Honeoye Lake
Information and Reviews
- This is the perfect lake for boating, fishing, and skiing, without attracting large crowds. Rental prices are reasonable, but watch out for algae blooms in the summer.
- Visitors love the reasonably priced homes around the lake, but note that the algae bloom in July can make swimming impossible and there are few restaurants nearby.
- A review mentions the great experience of having a picnic at Sandy Bottoms area and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
- Despite some concerns about decreasing fish population and algae blooms, guests appreciate the State launch for its ease of use.
Visitors enjoy the size of the lake, the activities it offers, and the overall beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're looking to relax on the water or enjoy a picnic with a view, Honeoye Lake has something for everyone.

16. Van Cortlandt Lake
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- It’s the most calm and peaceful part of Van Cortlandt Park. Love spending time here to relax.
- Good place for a relaxing day. Went fishing did not get a single bite. But it was after some heavy rain we got and the water was a mess that day.
- Great scenery but very hard to land a fish.
- Unique lake and peaceful area. Mind refresher.
Visitors praise the unique and peaceful atmosphere of Van Cortlandt Lake, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a moment of tranquility in the heart of nature.
Map of Fishing Lakes in New York
New York is home to numerous fishing lakes that offer anglers opportunities to catch a wide variety of fish species. Whether you prefer bass fishing in the Finger Lakes or casting for trout in the Adirondacks, there is a lake in New York to suit your fishing preferences. Check out the map below to discover all the prime fishing spots in the state.
What are some popular fishing lakes in New York?
New York is home to a variety of fishing lakes that attract anglers from all over. Some of the most popular fishing lakes in the state include Lake George, Lake Champlain, Oneida Lake, Cayuga Lake, and Seneca Lake. These lakes offer a wide range of fish species to catch and are known for their scenic beauty.
What types of fish can I expect to catch in New York fishing lakes?
When fishing in New York lakes, you can expect to catch a variety of fish species depending on the specific lake. Some common fish that can be found in New York fishing lakes include trout, bass, walleye, pike, and panfish. These lakes offer a diverse angling experience for fishermen of all skill levels.
Are there any regulations I need to be aware of when fishing in New York lakes?
Yes, when fishing in New York lakes, it's important to be aware of the fishing regulations set by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. These regulations may include size limits, bag limits, and special regulations for certain lakes. It's important to check the current fishing regulations before heading out to fish.
What are some tips for a successful fishing trip in New York lakes?
To have a successful fishing trip in New York lakes, consider the following tips:
- Research the lake's fishing conditions and fish species beforehand
- Use appropriate fishing gear and equipment for the specific fish species
- Pack essentials such as bait, tackle, and sunscreen
- Respect the environment and follow leave no trace principles
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