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Lake Trout

Lake Trout

Lake Trout are a native char species in New York, inhabiting deep, cold, well-oxygenated oligotrophic waters throughout the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, and Adirondacks. These long-lived fish can exceed 20 years and reach substantial sizes.

They are apex predators with populations supported by extensive stocking programs, with current populations remaining stable though reduced from historical levels.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus namaycush

Physical Characteristics:
  • The New York State record is over 39 pounds from Lake Ontario.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Inhabit deep, cold, well-oxygenated oligotrophic waters throughout the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, and Adirondacks.
  • They occupy hypolimnetic waters during summer stratification and move to shallower areas during spring and fall when temperatures are suitable.

Key Locations

  • Lake Ontario (especially eastern sections), Lake Erie, Lake Champlain, the Finger Lakes (particularly Seneca, Cayuga, and Skaneateles), and numerous Adirondack lakes.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas in 4-20 feet of water near rocky shorelines, reefs, and drop-offs during spring and fall.
  • Target areas with transitions between substrates like sand to rock.
  • Focus on inlet/outlet areas and tributary mouths where baitfish concentrate.

Lake Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Trout in New York?

Large spoons (white-and-red Daredevils, yellow-and-red Five of Diamonds), big swimbaits, flutter spoons, and Flatfish.

What flies work for Lake Trout in New York?

Large streamers (4+ inches) in black with purple/pink accents or white with contrasting colors - avoid monochromatic patterns.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Trout in New York?

Season runs April 1 - October 15, with spring and fall offering the best opportunities. Early spring immediately after ice-out and fall provide excellent shallow-water fishing opportunities.

How do you catch Lake Trout in New York?

Techniques vary by season: slow-troll Flatfish or fast-troll spoons up to 4mph over shallow sand flats in spring, use downriggers and wire line in deeper water during summer, and cast or troll near spawning areas in early fall (before spawning begins). Fish large spoons fast on sunny days.

What do Lake Trout eat?

Lake Trout are apex predators that feed on a variety of prey including rainbow smelt, alewife, slimy sculpin, Mysis diluviana, and other fish. Young lake trout start with zooplankton and Mysis before transitioning to primarily fish by age-2.

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