%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fusers%2Fb4a88cd9-14b9-45c8-acae-6911cd135059%2Fimages%2F0ff7b3bf-fe75-4f07-b116-948ead6563f7.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Fall Derby Fishing: 6HR Private Adventure
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- New York
- $400 - $1,000 price range
- Updated Date: October 4, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2Fb4a88cd9-14b9-45c8-acae-6911cd135059%2Fratecard%2Fhttps___081e2d1d520cef4d95dbb7d13c702a98.cdn.bubble.io_f1724210075930x165234310732653500_1724209838341x954194757265993000.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Derby Day Catches
Bait, cast, catch – NY delivers
Reel moments in the Empire State
From NYC docks to Adirondack lakes
Hooked on NY’s freshwater fishing fun
null
null
Finger Lakes fish, memories made
Lunkers lurking in New York depths
Reeling it in, New York-style
Walleye days and New York nights
Bait, cast, catch – NY delivers
Reel moments in the Empire State
From NYC docks to Adirondack lakes
Hooked on NY’s freshwater fishing fun
null
null
Finger Lakes fish, memories made
Lunkers lurking in New York depths
Reeling it in, New York-style
Walleye days and New York nights
Bait, cast, catch – NY delivers
Reel moments in the Empire State
From NYC docks to Adirondack lakes
Hooked on NY’s freshwater fishing fun
Lake Ontario's Fall Derby Fishing Bonanza
Get ready for some serious rod-bending action on Lake Ontario this fall! Our 6-hour private charter puts you right in the thick of the Fall Loc Derby, where big fish and even bigger prizes are up for grabs. We'll hit the water at the crack of dawn, giving you prime time to land that trophy catch. Whether you're after hard-fighting salmon or the elusive brown trout, this trip's got it all. And with room for up to four anglers, you can bring your A-team to increase your chances of Derby glory.
What's the Deal on Deck?
Picture this: You're cruising out on Lake Ontario as the sun peeks over the horizon, coffee in hand, surrounded by your fishing buddies. The air's crisp, there's a hint of fall in the breeze, and the lake's alive with the promise of big catches. We're talking a 5:30 AM start – yeah, it's early, but trust me, that's when the magic happens. For six full hours, you'll be in the hot seat, ready to battle it out with some of the lake's most prized game fish. And here's the kicker – it's all about that Derby action. We're not just fishing; we're competing for bragging rights and some sweet prizes. At $600 for the whole boat, split between four people, it's a steal for a shot at Derby fame.
Trolling Tactics 101
Alright, let's talk shop. We'll be trolling – the go-to method for covering water and enticing those big lake dwellers. We're rigged up with downriggers, planer boards, and a spread that'd make any fish drool. We'll be running a mix of spoons, flashers with flies, and maybe even some cut bait if the bite calls for it. Keep your eyes peeled for those rod tips – when they start bouncing, it's game on! And don't worry if you're new to this; we'll show you the ropes. From setting the hook to playing your fish, we've got you covered. Just be ready to reel when that drag starts screaming!
Species You'll Want to Hook
Atlantic Salmon: These silver bullets are the pride of Lake Ontario. Known for their acrobatic fights, Atlantics will have you holding on tight. They average 5-10 pounds but can push 20+ if you're lucky. Fall's prime time for these beauties, as they fatten up for winter. When an Atlantic hits, get ready for some serious airtime – these fish love to jump!
Brown Trout: Lake Ontario's browns are the stuff of legend. These cunning predators can grow to monster sizes, with 20-pounders not unheard of. They're most active in cooler water, making fall the perfect season to target them. Browns are known for their powerful runs and dogged fights – landing one of these is a real feather in your cap.
Walleye: While we're primarily after salmonids, don't sleep on the walleye. These tasty critters are abundant in Lake Ontario and put up a respectable fight. Fall sees them schooling up, which can lead to some fast action if we hit it right. Plus, they're hands-down some of the best eating fish in the lake.
Chinook Salmon: The kings of the lake, Chinooks are the heavyweights of the salmon world. Fall is when the big boys come out to play, with fish pushing 30 pounds or more. When a king decides to take your bait, hold on tight – these bruisers are known for their powerful runs and never-say-die attitude.
Coho Salmon: Don't let their smaller size fool you; Cohos are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in the lake. They're fast, acrobatic, and always eager to slam a well-presented lure. Fall sees them at their peak condition, chrome-bright and full of fight.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Let's be real – there's something special about fall fishing on Lake Ontario. The crowds have thinned out, the fish are feeding aggressively, and the weather's just right for a day on the water. But it's the Derby that really gets the blood pumping. There's nothing quite like the thrill of knowing that every cast could be the one that lands you a prize-winning fish. And even if you don't take home the top honors, the memories of battling Lake Ontario's finest will stick with you long after you're back on shore.
Time to Book Your Spot
Look, the Fall Loc Derby only runs from August 16 to September 2, so spots fill up fast. With free cancellation up to a week before, there's no reason not to lock in your date now. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, this trip's got something for everyone. Bring your crew, bring your A-game, and let's see if we can't put you on some Derby-winning fish. The lake's calling, and trust me, you don't want to miss this. Check the calendar, pick your day, and let's make some Lake Ontario magic happen!
Learn more about the species
Atlantic Salmon
Atlantic salmon are the heavyweight champs of Lake Ontario. These silver-sided beauties can grow up to 30 inches and pack a serious punch when hooked. They're known for their acrobatic fights and tasty, pink flesh. You'll find them cruising the cooler, deeper waters, especially near structure. Fall is prime time as they bulk up for spawning. Unlike Pacific salmon, these guys can spawn multiple times, so we practice catch-and-release to keep the population healthy. When targeting Atlantics, try trolling with flashy spoons or cut bait rigs. My secret weapon? A chartreuse and silver streamer fly stripped erratically – it drives them wild. Just remember, these fish are smart and can be finicky. Patience and stealth are key to landing one of these prized catches.
Brown Trout
Brown trout are the sly dogs of Lake Ontario. These golden-brown beauties average 5-8 pounds but can push 20. They're crafty predators, often lurking near drop-offs, rocky points, or submerged trees. Browns are most active in cooler water, so spring and fall are prime seasons. They put up a stubborn fight and taste great on the grill. To catch 'em, try trolling with stickbaits or spoons near shore, especially at dawn or dusk. My secret weapon is a small blue and silver Rapala – it mimics the local baitfish perfectly. Browns can be finicky, so vary your speed and depth until you find the sweet spot. Keep an eye out for jumping bait – it often signals feeding trout nearby. There's something special about fooling a big, wise brown trout – it's like a chess match with fins.
Chinook Salmon
Chinook salmon, or "kings," are the bruisers of Lake Ontario. These monsters can top 30 pounds and will test every inch of your gear. They're typically found in deeper, cooler water but come shallow in fall to stage for spawning. Kings are known for their hard-fighting ability and rich, red flesh. To target them, we often troll with downriggers, using large spoons or cut bait. My go-to setup is a whole alewife rigged behind a flasher – it's like ringing the dinner bell. Early mornings and overcast days are prime time. When a king hits, hang on tight – their initial run is legendary. These fish can strip 100 yards of line in seconds. The thrill of battling a Lake Ontario king is hard to beat, and the potential for a true trophy keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon, or "silvers," are the acrobats of Lake Ontario. These feisty fish typically run 5-10 pounds and put on a show when hooked, often leaping clear out of the water. Look for them in the top 30 feet of the water column, especially near temperature breaks or bait schools. Fall is prime time as they stage for their spawning run. Coho are prized for their orange-red flesh and mild flavor. When targeting them, try trolling with flashy spoons or cut bait rigs. My secret weapon is a small dodger followed by a green hoochie – it mimics the local alewives perfectly. Coho can be finicky biters, so experiment with different speeds and depths. Keep an eye out for jumping fish – it's a dead giveaway that a school is nearby. Nothing beats the thrill of a chromed-up coho taking to the air on light tackle.
Walleye
Walleye are the bread and butter of Lake Ontario fishing. These golden-olive predators average 2-3 pounds but can top 10. They've got a mouthful of teeth and eyes that shine at night – hence the name. You'll find them hanging around rocky points, drop-offs, and weed edges, typically in 15-30 feet of water. They're most active at dawn and dusk, making for some exciting low-light fishing. Walleye put up a good fight and are absolutely delicious on the table. Locals can't get enough of their firm, white fillets. To catch 'em, try slow-trolling with bottom bouncers and worm harnesses, or jigging minnows near structure. My go-to trick is using a three-way rig with a floating jighead and live bait – it's deadly effective. Remember, walleye are light-sensitive, so darker days often mean better fishing.
About the Ah Shore Thing Fishing Charter
%2F%2Fusers%2Fb4a88cd9-14b9-45c8-acae-6911cd135059%2Fvehicle_picture%2F20230529_133029.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 7
Manufacturer Name: Yahmaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 45
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 225
