Queensbury Fishing Guides
Queensbury fishing charters give anglers access to Lake George’s deep basins, rocky points, and weed lines for lake trout, landlocked salmon, and bass.
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Queensbury, NY Fishing Guide
Fishing in Queensbury centers around Lake George, a deep, clear Adirondack lake known for both its coldwater and warmwater fisheries. Most charters here run half-day and full-day trips, with specialty offerings like spring salmon trolling, summer bass casting, and winter ice fishing when the lake locks up. The lake’s structure is varied — steep rocky shorelines, submerged humps, deep mid-lake basins, and long weedy bays — giving anglers options all year. Launch points are typically from the southern end at Lake George Village, with other ramps at Million Dollar Beach, Dunham’s Bay, and Bolton Landing for runs to mid-lake and northern waters.
Coldwater fishing dominates in early spring and late fall, with boats targeting lake trout and landlocked salmon along drop-offs, using downriggers and trolling spoons in 40–100 feet. Summer brings topwater smallmouth and largemouth bass action over rocky flats and near weed beds, along with steady deepwater trolling for lakers suspended in the thermocline. In winter, Queensbury ice anglers set tip-ups for northern pike and jig spoons for perch and lake trout over the deep holes.
Nearby waters like Glen Lake and the Hudson River offer alternate bites, with warmwater species in summer and pike in cooler months. Run distances vary — from quick five-minute runs to the weed lines to 20–30 minutes to reach less-pressured mid-lake humps. Techniques range from light tackle casting and drop-shotting for bass, to vertical jigging for lake trout, to trolling with lead core or wire for salmon. Queensbury’s fishing calendar is long, and with the diversity of water nearby, there’s a productive option in every season.
Fishing Seasons in Queensbury
Spring (March–May)
Spring fishing in Queensbury starts as soon as ice-out on Lake George, often in late March or April. Lake trout and landlocked salmon are in the top 20 feet of water, so flatline trolling with stickbaits or spoons is effective. Charter captains focus on shorelines with rocky points and current areas near inlets. Smallmouth bass season begins later in spring, with pre-spawn fish staging along drop-offs and rocky flats. Water temps rise slowly, so morning trips can be cold, but the action is consistent for coldwater species.
Summer (June–August)
By June, the thermocline sets up, and lake trout move deeper, often 60–100 feet down. Captains run downriggers and vertical jigging rigs over deep basins, while bass fishing heats up on shallower rocky points and weed edges. Warm, clear water makes for great topwater smallmouth action early and late in the day. Glen Lake offers a strong largemouth bite for those looking for something different. Boat traffic can be heavy on weekends, so charters often leave early to get the best spots.
Fall (September–November)
Fall sees salmon and lake trout feeding aggressively before the spawn. Trolling speeds slow down, and bigger spoons or live bait get the nod. Smallmouth and largemouth bass feed heavily on crayfish and baitfish in the shallows, making them prime targets for jerkbaits and jigs. Water clarity remains high, so lighter line and natural colors work best. With cooler weather, there’s less boat pressure, and many captains take longer runs to mid-lake humps for less-pressured fish.
Winter (December–February)
When Lake George freezes, typically in January in the bays and later in the deeper sections, ice fishing takes over. Tip-ups baited with live shiners produce northern pike and large perch in the shallows, while jigging spoons in deeper water brings in lake trout. Ice conditions vary, so most anglers stick to known safe bays like Dunham’s Bay early in the season. Winter charters are often shorter but can yield excellent catches for those dressed for the cold.
Gamefish in Queensbury
- Lake Trout – 3–20 lbs. Taken deep in summer with downriggers or jigs; spring and fall in shallower rocky areas.
- Landlocked Salmon – 2–6 lbs. Trolled in top water layers in spring and fall, deeper in summer.
- Smallmouth Bass – 1–5 lbs. Found around rocky points, humps, and drop-offs; topwater in summer, jigs in fall.
- Largemouth Bass – 1–6 lbs. Prefers weedy bays and docks; best in summer and early fall.
- Northern Pike – 5–15 lbs. Iced in winter or taken in weedy bays with spinnerbaits in summer.
- Yellow Perch – 8–14 inches. Schooling over flats; jigged in winter or caught with live bait year-round.
- Rainbow Trout – 1–4 lbs. Stocked in nearby lakes; taken by trolling or casting spoons.
Queensbury Fishing FAQs
Where do most fishing charters launch in Queensbury?
Most charters launch from Lake George Village’s Million Dollar Beach ramp, with other access points at Dunham’s Bay and Bolton Landing for mid- and north-lake trips.
What trip lengths are common for Queensbury fishing charters?
Half-day (4–5 hours) and full-day (8 hours) trips are common. Ice fishing outings in winter are often 3–4 hours due to cold weather.
Is fishing gear included on Queensbury charters?
Yes, captains typically provide rods, reels, tackle, and bait. In winter, ice shelters and heaters may also be included.
Do I need a fishing license to fish Lake George?
Yes, anyone 16 or older needs a valid New York State fishing license to fish Lake George and surrounding waters.
When is the best time to fish in Queensbury?
Coldwater species peak in early spring and late fall, while bass fishing is best from June through September. Ice fishing is productive in January and February.
What techniques are popular in Queensbury?
Trolling with downriggers for trout and salmon, drop-shotting for bass, and jigging spoons in winter are among the most effective.
What species can I expect in summer on Lake George?
Expect lake trout and salmon in deep water, plus smallmouth and largemouth bass along rocky and weedy shorelines.
How many people can join a Queensbury fishing charter?
Most boats accommodate 4–6 anglers, though some larger vessels can take more. Ice fishing groups can be larger, spread among multiple shelters.
Are there specialty trips available in Queensbury?
Yes, captains offer ice fishing trips in winter, salmon trolling in spring, bass-focused summer trips, and foliage-season fall outings.