Lake Ontario Salmon & Trout Morning Charter
Captain William Watkins knows Lake Ontario like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious fish. This six-hour morning charter runs from April through September when the salmon and trout fishing is absolutely on fire. You'll be fishing from his 27-foot Sportcraft with room for up to six anglers, so bring your crew or join a small group of fellow fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, William's got the knowledge and gear to make this a day you'll remember.
What to Expect on the Water
Your morning starts early – that's when the fish are most active and the bite is hottest. Lake Ontario is a world-class fishery, and you'll quickly see why once you get out there. The water is deep, clean, and loaded with baitfish that draw in massive salmon and trout. William runs a professional operation, so all your rods, reels, tackle, and live bait are included in the price. You just need to show up with your fishing license, some snacks, and plenty of enthusiasm. The 27-foot Sportcraft gives everyone room to fish comfortably, and the boat's equipped with all the electronics you need to find and stay on the fish. Don't be surprised if you hook into something that makes your drag scream – these Great Lakes fish fight like freight trains.
Top Trolling Techniques
This isn't your typical cast-and-hope fishing trip. William uses high-production trolling methods that consistently produce fish. You'll be running downriggers to get your lures down to where the big kings and cohos are cruising, plus planer boards to spread your lines out and cover more water. Dipsey divers are another weapon in the arsenal, helping you hit different depths and presentations. The beauty of trolling Lake Ontario is that you're constantly moving through fish-holding water, and when you mark fish on the sonar, you can adjust your speed and depth to dial in the bite. Live bait is a game-changer out here too – nothing beats a fresh alewife or emerald shiner when the fish are being picky. William's been perfecting these techniques for years, so you're learning from someone who knows how to put fish in the boat consistently.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Chinook Salmon are the kings of Lake Ontario for good reason. These bruisers can push 30 pounds or more and will test every ounce of your fishing skills. They're most active in the cooler morning hours and tend to hang in deeper water during the summer months, often 80 to 150 feet down. When you hook a king, get ready for multiple runs and some serious arm burn. The fight can last 15 minutes or more, and there's nothing quite like seeing that chrome-bright salmon come to the net. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall, with some of the biggest fish showing up in August and September.
Coho Salmon might be smaller than their chinook cousins, but they're absolute acrobats. These silver rockets love to jump and run, making them a customer favorite for their spectacular fights. Cohos typically range from 8 to 15 pounds and can be found at various depths depending on the thermocline. They're aggressive feeders and will often hit lures with authority. The best part about cohos is their tendency to jump completely out of the water multiple times during the fight – it's pure fishing excitement that gets everyone on the boat fired up.
Steelhead Trout are pound-for-pound some of the strongest fish in the lake. These rainbow trout on steroids combine speed, strength, and aerial ability into one package that'll leave you breathless. They're known for their long, blistering runs and their habit of jumping repeatedly. Steelhead can be caught year-round, but the spring and fall periods offer some of the best action. They typically range from 8 to 20 pounds, and their bright silver coloration and fighting spirit make them a top target for serious anglers.
Brown Trout are the crafty veterans of Lake Ontario. These fish can live longer and grow larger than other trout species, with some specimens pushing 20 pounds or more. Browns are known for their wariness and their preference for deeper, cooler water during the day. They often feed more actively during low-light periods, making the early morning hours perfect for targeting them. When you hook a big brown, expect a determined fight with powerful runs close to the bottom. Their golden-brown coloration with distinctive spots makes them one of the most beautiful fish in the lake.
Walleye might not be the primary target, but they're a welcome bonus that often shows up during salmon and trout trips. Lake Ontario walleye are typically larger than their inland cousins, with fish in the 6 to 10-pound range being common. They're excellent table fare and provide a nice change of pace from the hard-fighting salmonids. Walleye tend to bite more consistently throughout the day and are often caught when trolling near structure or drop-offs. Their golden color and distinctive white-tipped fins make them easy to identify.
Time to Book Your Spot
Lake Ontario fishing doesn't get much better than this. Captain William's morning charter gives you the best shot at multiple species during prime feeding times, and his proven techniques consistently put fish in the boat. With the season running April through September, you've got plenty of opportunities to get out there and experience some of the best fishing the Great Lakes has to offer. The six-hour timeframe gives you enough time to really dial in the bite and put together a memorable day on the water. Extended hours are available if you want to maximize your time fishing, and with a capacity of six anglers, it's perfect for family trips or groups of friends. Don't wait too long to book – the best dates fill up fast, especially during peak salmon season.
Private Trip
Lakes/Reservoirs/Ponds Fishing
Salmon River
Six
