The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in New York Ranked

If you love fishing or just enjoy spending time outdoors, you’ll want to check out this list of the top 30 fishing lakes in New York State. I’ve spent years fishing in this region, but for this article, I didn’t just rely on my own experience. I reached out to local anglers and talked with people who know these lakes well. On top of that, we ran polls on our social media pages to hear from even more voices — people who fish these waters every season and know where the best catches can be found.

This list is shaped by a mix of personal experience, local advice, and community opinions. Whether you’re into bass, trout, walleye, or perch, you’ll find a lake on this list that offers good fishing and plenty of space to enjoy the day. These lakes are spread across the state, from the Adirondacks to the Finger Lakes and beyond. So whether you live nearby or are planning a fishing trip, this list can help you figure out where to go next. Keep reading to see which lakes made the cut and why local anglers and visitors alike keep coming back to these waters year after year.

30. Thompsons Lake

Thompsons Lake, near Thacher State Park in Albany County, is a peaceful spot that offers steady fishing for locals and visitors. It’s home to largemouth bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, and chain pickerel. The lake’s shallow waters and weedy areas make it a great place for small boats, kayaks, or shoreline fishing. Anglers often use light tackle to target bass and panfish near docks and weed edges. There’s a public boat launch for easy access, and the nearby park offers extra outdoor activities. In winter, ice fishing brings out anglers looking for perch and bluegill, making it a fun year-round destination.

29. Burden Lake

Burden Lake, found in Rensselaer County, is a solid fishing spot with a variety of species to target. Anglers here often go after largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and bluegill. The lake is divided into three sections — First, Second, and Third Burden Lake — giving plenty of water to explore. Weed beds and rocky spots provide good cover for bass and panfish, while deeper sections hold perch. Many people fish from small boats or kayaks, but shoreline access is available too. In the winter, ice fishing picks up, with perch and panfish being the main targets.

28. Van Cortlandt Lake

Van Cortlandt Lake, located in the Bronx inside Van Cortlandt Park, gives city anglers a rare fishing spot without leaving New York City. It’s a small, shallow lake that holds largemouth bass, carp, bluegill, and pumpkinseed. Since boats aren’t allowed, most people fish from the banks, using simple setups like bobbers, worms, or light tackle. The lake’s mix of open water and weedy areas offers decent spots for bass and panfish to hide. While it’s not a large or remote destination, Van Cortlandt Lake is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a few hours of fishing in the city.

27. Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake, found in the Adirondacks, offers anglers a big stretch of water filled with fishing opportunities. You can go after northern pike, largemouth bass, walleye, and lake trout here. The lake’s mix of deep sections, rocky points, and shallow bays gives boaters and shore anglers plenty of places to try their luck. Public boat launches make getting on the water simple, whether you’re in a motorboat or a canoe. Bass and pike stick near the weeds and shorelines, while trout stay deeper. In winter, ice fishing draws locals chasing perch and pike. Tupper Lake is a solid year-round spot.

26. Laurel Lake

Laurel Lake is a quiet, small lake in New York that gives anglers a peaceful spot to fish without much boat traffic. It’s home to largemouth bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, and yellow perch. With easy shoreline access, it’s a good choice for bank fishing or taking out a kayak or canoe. The shallow water and weedy edges create great hiding spots for bass and panfish, making light tackle and simple setups a smart choice here. Though it’s not a large lake, Laurel Lake offers steady action and is a nice option for families or anyone wanting a laid-back fishing day.

25. Upper Saranac Lake

Upper Saranac Lake, tucked in the Adirondacks, offers anglers a wide stretch of water filled with lake trout, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. Its mix of deep channels, rocky points, and weedy bays creates plenty of good fishing spots for boaters and shore anglers alike. You can launch from several public access points, making it easy to spend a full day on the water. Bass and pike often stay near the shoreline, while trout prefer deeper sections, especially during the summer. In the colder months, ice fishing draws anglers looking for perch. It’s a solid, year-round fishing destination.

24. Cuba Lake

Cuba Lake, a man-made reservoir in western New York, offers a relaxed fishing spot for anglers targeting walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and bluegill. With about 445 acres of water, it’s an easy lake to navigate by small boat, kayak, or even from shore. Anglers often fish near the weed beds and shallow coves for bass or head to deeper spots for walleye. There’s a public boat launch available, and the nearby town of Cuba has shops for bait and gear. In winter, ice fishing becomes popular, especially for perch and panfish. It’s a solid year-round destination.

23. Allegheny Reservoir

Allegheny Reservoir, also called Kinzua Reservoir, stretches across the New York-Pennsylvania border and offers a wide range of fishing opportunities. Anglers come here for walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, muskellunge, and yellow perch. With deep channels, rocky shorelines, and quiet bays, there’s a good mix of fishing spots for boaters and shore anglers alike. Public boat launches on the New York side, especially near Onoville Marina, make access simple. Trolling is popular for walleye and muskie, while bass often hang around rocky areas. In winter, ice fishing draws anglers looking for perch. It’s a solid spot for year-round fishing.

22. Cranberry Lake

Cranberry Lake, located in the northwestern Adirondacks, offers anglers a big, wild lake with plenty of fishing spots. You can target smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, and bullhead in its many bays, rocky points, and coves. With a mix of shallow and deeper sections, there’s something here for boaters, canoe users, and even shore anglers. Public boat launches make access easy, especially on the southern side near the hamlet of Cranberry Lake. In winter, the lake becomes a popular ice fishing destination, mostly for perch and pike. Cranberry Lake is a great spot for those wanting both space and steady fishing action.

21. Owasco Lake

Owasco Lake, one of the smaller Finger Lakes, offers a good mix of fishing options. Anglers here often target lake trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and walleye. The deeper, cooler parts of the lake are great for trolling trout, while the shallower ends and nearshore areas hold bass and panfish. There’s a public boat launch at Emerson Park on the north end, making it easy to get on the water. Shore fishing is also popular, especially during spring and fall when fish move closer in. Owasco Lake offers a reliable fishing experience for anglers all year long.

20. Conesus Lake

Conesus Lake, the westernmost of the Finger Lakes, offers anglers plenty of action year-round. It’s known for largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake’s shallow depth helps warm the water quickly in spring, kicking off the fishing season early. Weed beds and rocky shorelines provide great spots for bass and pike, while trolling works well for walleye, especially at night. There’s a public boat launch at the south end, and shore fishing is easy in many areas. In winter, ice anglers head out for perch and bluegill. Conesus Lake is a solid pick for steady fishing.

19. Honeoye Lake

Honeoye Lake is one of the smaller Finger Lakes, but it’s packed with fishing action. Anglers come here for largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, and bluegill. The lake is shallow, which helps warm the water early in the season, keeping fish active all summer long. You’ll find plenty of weed beds and shallow flats, perfect for bass fishing. There’s a public boat launch at the south end, and shore fishing is also popular, especially in spring and fall. Ice fishing in winter draws crowds targeting perch and panfish. Honeoye Lake offers a laid-back, reliable spot for anglers year-round.

18. Great Sacandaga Lake

Great Sacandaga Lake, found at the edge of the southern Adirondacks, is a popular fishing spot for walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. The lake is offering a mix of shallow bays, rocky points, and deep channels. Anglers often troll for walleye or cast near the shore for bass and pike. Public boat launches and marinas make access simple, and local towns like Northville provide bait shops and supplies. Ice fishing is also a big draw in winter, with perch and walleye being the main targets. It’s a solid choice for any fishing trip.

17. Otsego Lake

Otsego Lake, located near Cooperstown, stretches about eight miles and is packed with fishing opportunities. Anglers here often target lake trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch. The deep, cool sections are great for trolling trout, while the rocky shorelines and drop-offs hold bass and perch. Public boat launches and shore access near the village make it easy to get on the water. Spring and fall are prime times for trout, while bass and perch stay active through summer. Whether you’re out for a serious catch or just a relaxing day, Otsego Lake has something for every angler.

16. Skaneateles Lake

Skaneateles Lake is one of the clearest and cleanest Finger Lakes. It’s a favorite spot for anglers going after lake trout, rainbow trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass. The deep, cool waters are great for trolling, especially if you’re after trout or salmon, while bass tend to stick close to the rocky shorelines. There’s a public boat launch near the village of Skaneateles, along with spots for shore fishing. Spring and fall often bring the best action, but the lake fishes well throughout the year. It’s a solid choice for a laid-back fishing trip.

15. Lake George

Lake George, sitting in the southern Adirondacks, is well-known for its clean, deep water and excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers target lake trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth bass, and northern pike throughout the year. The lake is offering a mix of deep channels, rocky ledges, and shallow bays where fish gather. Trolling works best for trout and salmon in deeper sections, while bass and pike are often found near drop-offs, weed beds, and around docks. There are plenty of public boat launches, marinas, and shoreline access points, making it easy to hit the water. The town of Lake George at the southern end provides spots to pick up gear, bait, or grab a bite after a long day of fishing. Ice fishing is also popular during the colder months, especially for perch and pike. With its size and variety, Lake George has something for just about every angler.

14. Indian Lake

Indian Lake, tucked deep in the Adirondacks, is a large, rugged lake that offers great fishing for smallmouth bass, lake trout, landlocked salmon, and northern pike. With its many coves, islands, and rocky points, there’s no shortage of spots to cast a line or drop a lure. The lake is surrounded by forest, giving it a more remote feel, but there are public boat launches and campsites that make it easier to access. Trolling is popular for trout and salmon in the deeper sections, while bass and pike tend to hang out in the shallows and around weed beds. Ice fishing also draws anglers here during the winter, mainly for perch and pike. The small town of Indian Lake nearby has a few places to pick up bait and supplies. Whether you’re fishing from a canoe, motorboat, or right off the shore, Indian Lake has plenty to offer.

13. Lake Placid

Lake Placid, set in the Adirondacks, is a deep, cold lake known for its lake trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass. The lake has clear water, steep drop-offs, and rocky shorelines, making it a great place for anglers looking to target larger fish. Trolling works well in the deeper areas, especially if you’re after trout, while bass are often found closer to shore or around underwater structures. There are public boat launches and plenty of shoreline access, making it easy to get out on the water. The village of Lake Placid sits nearby, offering bait shops, gear, and places to stay. Summer is popular for fishing here, but spring and fall often bring better trout action as the water cools. In the winter, ice fishing picks up, especially for perch. Lake Placid is a solid spot for anglers who want a mix of big lake challenges and good shore options.

12. Saranac Chain of Lakes

The Saranac Chain of Lakes, tucked in the Adirondacks, offers a mix of fishing across several connected lakes, including Upper, Middle, and Lower Saranac. Anglers come here for smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, perch, and lake trout. With all the bays, islands, and channels, you’ll find plenty of spots to fish whether you’re in a boat, kayak, or even right off the shore. The area has a quiet, backwoods feel, but it’s still easy to find boat launches and campsites, especially around the town of Saranac Lake. The lakes are popular in summer, but spring and fall often bring better fishing, especially for trout and bass. In winter, the action shifts to ice fishing, mainly for perch and pike. With so many waters connected, the Saranac Chain gives anglers a chance to move between lakes and try different fishing styles, all in one trip.

11. Canandaigua Lake

Canandaigua Lake, one of the Finger Lakes, is about 16 miles long and offers great fishing for lake trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, bass, and yellow perch. The deep, clear water makes it a favorite for trolling, especially if you’re after trout. Closer to shore, you’ll find good spots for bass and panfish around docks, weed lines, and rocky areas. Access is easy, with public boat launches and marinas near towns like Canandaigua at the north end and Naples at the south. Summer tends to bring more boat traffic, so many anglers like to head out early or fish later in the evening when the water is quieter. Ice fishing is also popular in winter, mainly for perch. With its clean water, healthy fish populations, and easy access, Canandaigua Lake is a solid choice whether you’re looking for a big catch or just a relaxing day on the water.

10. Saratoga Lake

Saratoga Lake sits just south of the city of Saratoga Springs and offers solid fishing for smallmouth bass and largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and panfish. It’s a medium-sized lake, about four miles long, with a mix of shallow bays, weedy spots, and deeper channels, giving anglers a variety of places to work with. The lake is easy to access, with public boat launches and shore fishing areas, making it a good choice whether you’re in a boat or casting from land. Bass tournaments are popular here, especially in the summer, and plenty of locals enjoy ice fishing during the colder months. The lake’s shape and structure mean you can fish everything from drop-offs to weed beds to rocky points. With nearby towns offering bait shops and rentals, Saratoga Lake makes it simple to plan a trip. Whether you’re after bass or just looking for steady bites, it’s a great place to fish.

9. Keuka Lake

Keuka Lake stands out among the Finger Lakes thanks to its unusual Y-shape, offering anglers plenty of shoreline and deepwater spots to fish. The lake is well known for lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass. Anglers often troll the deeper middle sections for trout, while the arms of the lake are great for targeting bass and panfish near rocky shorelines, docks, and weed beds. Access is pretty simple, with public boat launches and marinas spread around the lake, especially near Penn Yan and Hammondsport. In the warmer months, you’ll see plenty of boats out on the water, but early mornings and evenings often bring the best fishing. Winter also draws ice anglers, mainly after perch and panfish. With its clean water, healthy fish populations, and variety of fishing styles, Keuka Lake is a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a fun day on the water.

8. Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake is one of the longest Finger Lakes, and it offers great fishing for lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and landlocked salmon. The lake’s deep waters are perfect for trolling, while its shallow northern end is a solid spot for largemouth bass and panfish. Anglers can fish from shore or boat, with several access points along both the eastern and western sides. The towns of Ithaca and Seneca Falls sit at opposite ends, giving you plenty of options for supplies, boat launches, and lodging. Cayuga’s steep drop-offs and underwater ledges make it an exciting place to fish, especially if you’re targeting larger trout or salmon. Spring and fall tend to be the busiest times, but the lake offers something year-round, even through the ice in winter. If you’re looking for a mix of deep-water fishing and shoreline action, Cayuga Lake has you covered.

7. Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain stretches along the border of New York and Vermont, offering some of the best multi-species fishing in the state. Anglers come here for smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake trout, landlocked salmon, walleye, and northern pike. The lake is huge, with wide bays, rocky shorelines, and deep channels, so there’s always a new spot to try. Bass fishing is especially popular, and the lake hosts several tournaments each year. The deeper parts hold lake trout and salmon, while the shallows are great for pike and panfish. Boat access is easy, with plenty of marinas and public launches on the New York side. Ice fishing also draws crowds in the winter, especially for yellow perch and smelt. With its size and range of fish, Lake Champlain offers something for just about every type of angler, whether you’re chasing a trophy or just looking for steady bites.

6. Black Lake

Black Lake, found in northern New York, is a favorite among anglers looking for a variety of fish like largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, crappie, and bluegill. It’s not a deep lake, averaging about 8 feet, but it has plenty of structure, including weed beds, rocky areas, and stumps that provide great cover for fish. The calm, shallow waters make it a good choice for small boats, canoes, or even shore fishing. Many people come here for bass fishing tournaments or just to enjoy a laid-back day on the water. With its miles of shoreline, you won’t run out of places to cast a line. Spring and early summer are great for panfish, while bass and pike heat up as the weather warms. Several local lodges and bait shops cater to visiting anglers, making Black Lake a reliable and fun stop for anyone serious about fishing.

5. Chautauqua Lake

Chautauqua Lake, located in western New York, is known for its solid muskie fishing, along with good numbers of walleye, bass, and panfish. It’s not a huge lake, but it packs in a lot of variety. The shallow bays, weed beds, and rocky points offer all kinds of fishing spots, whether you’re casting from shore or heading out by boat. Muskie are the lake’s big draw, with anglers hoping to land a true giant, but even if you’re after perch or crappie, you’ll find plenty of action here. The lake has multiple boat launches and marinas, making access pretty simple. Summer is prime time for bass, while cooler months are better for walleye and muskie. Ice fishing also picks up during the winter. Chautauqua Lake has a reputation for producing both numbers and size, so it’s a great place to test your fishing skills.

4. Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake is the largest and deepest of New York’s Finger Lakes. Its cold, deep waters are a hotspot for lake trout, brown trout, and landlocked salmon, making it a top choice for serious anglers. The steep drop-offs and underwater ledges give fish plenty of places to roam, which means you’ll want to bring your best gear and be ready for a challenge. Popular access points include Watkins Glen at the southern end and Geneva up north, both offering boat launches and fishing services. Because of its depth, Seneca Lake stays cool even in summer, keeping trout active longer than in shallower lakes. Besides boat fishing, you can also have success from shore, especially in spring and fall when fish come in closer. Whether you’re after a trophy trout or just a good day on the water, Seneca Lake offers plenty of action.

3. Oneida Lake

Oneida Lake is the largest lake entirely within New York State, sitting just east of Syracuse. It’s a favorite among anglers thanks to its strong walleye, perch, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass populations. The lake is relatively shallow, which makes it warm up fast and helps boost fish activity early in the season. You’ll often find locals and visitors fishing from small boats, kayaks, or right off the many public docks and shorelines. Oneida is also known for its weed beds and rocky bottoms, giving fish plenty of places to hide — and giving anglers plenty of spots to test their skills. In winter, the lake draws ice fishermen looking for perch and walleye under the frozen surface. With several nearby towns and marinas, it’s easy to find bait shops, boat rentals, and places to launch. Oneida Lake offers a mix of challenges and rewards that keep anglers coming back year after year.

2. Lake Erie

Lake Erie sits along New York’s western edge and is known for being one of the best walleye fishing spots in the country. Anglers also come here for smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and steelhead. What sets Lake Erie apart is its shallow depth compared to the other Great Lakes, which means the water warms up faster in the spring, kicking off the fishing season early. The lake’s strong winds can sometimes make conditions rough, so it’s smart to watch the weather if you’re heading out. Popular launch spots like Buffalo and Dunkirk give easy access to great fishing areas, both nearshore and farther out. In late summer, you’ll often see boats trolling deep water for walleye, while spring and fall bring strong steelhead runs into nearby streams. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or casting from shore, Lake Erie offers steady action for anyone looking to reel in something worth bragging about.

1. Lake Ontario

Lake Ontario is one of the five Great Lakes, sitting right on the northern edge of New York State. It’s huge — over 7,300 square miles — and is a top spot for anglers looking for salmon, trout, and bass. Fishing here is popular because the deep, cold waters make a great home for big fish, and the lake’s size gives plenty of space to spread out. Many charter boats operate here, especially in places like Oswego and Rochester, helping people target trophy-sized catches. Besides fishing, Lake Ontario’s shoreline has rocky points, sandy stretches, and harbors, adding variety to the experience. Seasonal changes matter too — spring and fall are prime times for trout and salmon runs, while summer brings in plenty of bass action. With its mix of big water, solid fish populations, and easy access from nearby towns, Lake Ontario is a must-visit for anyone serious about New York fishing.

More Info on Fishing the Top Lakes in New York

If you’re planning a fishing trip to New York, you’ve got a lot of great spots to choose from. Whether you’re chasing bass, trout, walleye, or pike, the top lakes across the state offer plenty of chances to land a big one. Make sure to check local fishing regulations, since size limits, catch limits, and open seasons can vary from lake to lake.

You’ll also want to think about what kind of fishing experience you’re after. Some lakes are better for boat fishing, while others are perfect for shore casting or even ice fishing in the winter. It’s smart to look up the lake’s access points, parking, and whether there are boat launches or rentals available.

And don’t forget: weather matters. Always check the local forecast before you go and dress in layers, especially in spring or fall when conditions can change fast.

FAQ: Fishing New York’s Top Lakes

Q: Do I need a fishing license in New York State?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid New York State fishing license for most lakes. You can buy one online, at a sporting goods store, or sometimes at local town offices.

Q: When is the best time to fish in New York?
It depends on what you’re targeting. Spring and fall are often best for trout and salmon, while summer is prime time for bass, pike, and panfish. Winter ice fishing is also popular on many lakes.

Q: Can I fish from shore, or do I need a boat?
Many of the top lakes have good shoreline access, but some spots are easier to reach by boat. Check the lake’s details before you go — some have boat launches or even boat rentals.

Q: Are there any free fishing days in New York?
Yes! New York State offers a few “free fishing days” each year when anyone can fish without a license. Check the NY Department of Environmental Conservation website for the current dates.

Q: What should I bring on a fishing trip?
Besides your rod, reel, and tackle, bring your fishing license, a cooler for your catch (if you plan to keep fish), snacks, drinks, sunscreen, bug spray, and weather-appropriate clothing. A map or GPS can also help if you’re fishing a big lake.