Ready for the catch of a lifetime? SunMoon Adventures has you covered with our 10-hour fishing trips on Lake Ontario, launching from Oswego, NY. From late April through September, we're out on the water, chasing after some of the most sought-after game fish in the Great Lakes. Whether you're after the acrobatic leaps of steelhead or the bulldogging fights of chinook salmon, this trip delivers the goods. Captain SunMoon knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on the fish. Grab your buddies - we can take up to four anglers - and get ready for a day you won't forget.
When you step aboard our fully-rigged fishing machine, you're in for a treat. We've got all the gear you need to tangle with Lake Ontario's finned warriors. From downriggers to dipsy divers, we're armed to the teeth with the latest fish-finding tech. The lake can be a fickle mistress, but Captain SunMoon's years of experience mean we know where the fish are holding and what they're biting. We'll be trolling primarily, covering water to find active fish. Don't worry if you're new to this style of fishing - we'll show you the ropes and have you reeling in giants in no time. And hey, 10 hours might sound long, but trust me, when the rods are bouncing and the cooler's filling up, time flies!
Trolling is the name of the game on Lake Ontario, and it's how we consistently put our clients on trophy fish. We'll be running multiple lines at various depths, using a combination of downriggers, dipsy divers, and planer boards to cover the water column. Our lures of choice? Spoons, plugs, and cut bait - we match the hatch depending on what the fish are keyed in on. The boat's always moving, usually between 1.5 to 3 mph, which allows us to cover a lot of water and find those active schools. When a fish hits, it's all hands on deck! We'll clear the other lines and get you set up for the fight of your life. It's a team effort out here, and there's nothing quite like the rush when that reel starts screaming.
Lake Ontario is home to some true freshwater giants, and on our trips, you've got a shot at several world-class species. Let's break 'em down:
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These high-flying acrobats are a favorite among anglers. Steelhead in Lake Ontario typically range from 5 to 15 pounds, with some topping 20. They're known for their spectacular leaps and blistering runs. Spring and fall are prime times, but we catch them year-round. The fight of a chrome-bright steelhead is something you'll never forget.
Chinook Salmon: Also known as "Kings," these are the heavyweights of the lake. Chinooks can top 30 pounds, with 20-pounders being common. They're bulldogs, often diving deep and testing both angler and equipment. Late summer and early fall are peak times as they start their spawning runs. Hooking into one of these brutes is like trying to stop a freight train - pure adrenaline!
Brown Trout: Lake Ontario's browns are renowned for their size and beauty. They average 5 to 10 pounds but can reach the high teens. Browns are often found closer to shore, especially in spring and fall. They're known for their hard strikes and dogged fights. Landing a big brown trout is like unwrapping a gift - their spotted patterns are a sight to behold.
Coho Salmon: While not as large as their Chinook cousins, Cohos make up for it with their feisty attitude. Typically ranging from 3 to 8 pounds, they're fast and furious fighters. Cohos often travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're also excellent table fare, with rich, orange flesh that's hard to beat.
There's something special about fishing Lake Ontario out of Oswego. Maybe it's the way the sun rises over the eastern horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. Or perhaps it's the moment when your rod doubles over, and you realize you're connected to a fish that could be the new "personal best." Our trips aren't just about catching fish - though we do plenty of that. It's about the experience of being out on one of the Great Lakes, feeling the power of nature, and sharing stories and laughs with friends and family. And let's not forget the bragging rights - nothing beats showing off photos of your monster catch to buddies back home.
On our trips, we provide all the fishing gear you'll need. We're talking top-of-the-line rods and reels, spooled with fresh line that can handle anything the lake throws at us. Our selection of lures is extensive, from classic spoons to the latest in soft plastic technology. But there are a few things you should bring to ensure a comfortable day on the water:
1. Layered clothing - Lake Ontario weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers you can add or remove. 2. Rain gear - Even if the forecast looks clear, it's always smart to be prepared. 3. Sunscreen and sunglasses - The sun reflects off the water, so protect your skin and eyes. 4. Camera - Trust me, you'll want to document your catches. 5. Cooler - If you plan on keeping fish, bring a cooler with ice to keep your catch fresh. 6. Snacks and drinks - We're out for 10 hours, so pack accordingly. Don't forget water!
So what does a typical 10-hour trip look like? We'll meet at the dock before sunrise, load up the boat, and head out as the first light breaks over the horizon. The early morning hours are often the most productive, so we waste no time getting lines in the water. As we troll, Captain SunMoon will give you the lowdown on the techniques we're using and what to watch for. When a fish hits, it's game on! We'll coach you through the fight, making sure you land that trophy safely.
Throughout the day, we'll adjust our tactics based on what the fish are telling us. Maybe we'll run shallow for browns in the morning, then head to deeper water for salmon as the day warms up. We'll break for lunch (don't forget to pack one!), swapping fish stories and enjoying the beauty of Lake Ontario. As the afternoon wears on, we often see another flurry of activity. There's nothing quite like watching the sun start to dip as you battle one last monster to cap off the day.
At SunMoon Adventures, we're not just about catching fish - we're committed to preserving this incredible fishery for future generations. We practice and encourage responsible fishing techniques, including proper catch-and-release methods for fish you don't plan to keep. Lake Ontario's ecosystem is delicate, and as anglers, we play a crucial role in maintaining its health. We'll happily share tips on how to minimize your impact while maximizing your enjoyment of the resource.
If you're itching to test your skills against Lake Ontario's finest, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our 10-hour adventures are available from late April through September, but prime dates fill up fast. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some trophy catches to your list or a newcomer eager to experience the thrill of big-water fishing, we've got you covered. Remember, our trips are all-inclusive for up to four anglers, so it's perfect for a group of friends or a family outing. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing the world-class fishing that Lake Ontario has to offer. Give us a call or book online - the fish are waiting, and so are we!
Brown trout are the crafty characters of Lake Ontario. These fish usually run 2-8 pounds, but 10-pounders aren't rare. You'll find them hugging structure like submerged logs or rocky areas, especially in cooler water. Browns are most active in low light, so early mornings or evenings are prime time. Anglers prize them for their wariness and hard-fighting nature - hooking one is just half the battle. Their buttery, orange flesh makes excellent eating too. For the best shot at a big brown, try trolling with stickbaits or spoons near shoreline drop-offs. Here's a local secret: after a good rain, hit the tributary mouths where browns gather to ambush baitfish. Patient anglers who crack the brown trout code are in for some of the most satisfying fishing Lake Ontario has to offer.
Chinook salmon, or "kings," are the giants of Lake Ontario. These bruisers average 15-30 pounds, with some monsters pushing 40. They prefer cooler, deeper waters, so downriggers are your best bet for getting to them. Prime time for kings is mid-summer through early fall when they start their spawning runs. Anglers love Chinooks for their sheer power - when you hook one, hang on tight! They're also delicious, with rich, orange-red flesh. To up your odds, troll with flashers and flies or big spoons. Here's an insider tip: during calm mornings, watch for kings "finning" at the surface and cast to them. Landing a trophy Chinook is an unforgettable experience that'll test your skills and your gear.
Rainbow trout are a favorite on Lake Ontario, known for their acrobatic jumps and hard-fighting spirit. These beauties typically run 2-8 pounds, with some topping 20. Look for them near gravelly shorelines or in cooler, deeper water during summer. They're most active at dusk or early evening, so that's prime fishing time. Anglers love rainbows for their stunning colors and delicious, pink flesh. To boost your chances, try nymphing with flies or drifting live bait just off the bottom. A local trick: on bright days, use flashy lures to catch their eye in the clear water. Whether you're after a trophy or just want to tangle with a feisty fish, rainbow trout deliver an exciting experience from hook-set to net.
Steelhead are the sea-run cousins of rainbow trout, spending time in both fresh and saltwater. These powerful fish typically range from 5-12 pounds, but 20-pounders aren't unheard of. You'll find them in Lake Ontario's tributaries during their spawning runs, usually fall through spring. Steelhead are prized for their incredible strength and stamina - expect long runs and acrobatic leaps when you hook one. They're also excellent table fare. For the best shot at landing a steelhead, try drifting egg sacs or swinging flies in deeper pools and runs. A word to the wise: use a longer rod to help absorb those powerful strikes and keep tension during the fight. Steelhead fishing can be challenging, but that's what makes landing one so rewarding.
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