Staff Report / June 25, 2025
Summer Fishing Update: Keuka Lake Heating Up for Anglers
The Finger Lakes region is delivering on its promise of stellar fishing opportunities this summer, with Keuka and Seneca Lakes both offering prime conditions for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re casting for smallmouth bass at sunrise or trolling the deep channels for lake trout, now is one of the best times to be out on the water.
Bass Fishing Heating Up:
Smallmouth and largemouth bass are active and aggressive as water temperatures rise. Early mornings are prime time for topwater action using lures like the Rebel Pop-R. As the day progresses, bass are being caught on crankbaits in the 5–10 foot range, with drop-shot rigs and tube baits taking over as fish move deeper.
Anglers report solid results using green-pumpkin Senkos rigged wacky-style, and larger soft plastics like 6″ MagDrafts near creek mouths and submerged points. The bite is expected to keep improving into July.
Lake Trout Still Strong:
Lake trout are holding steady in depths ranging from 60 to 180 feet. Flashy spoons, baitfish-imitating lures, and drop-shot setups tipped with nightcrawlers or artificial baits are producing well. As the thermocline sets up, expect trout to concentrate in more predictable zones, improving catch rates for those dialed into deeper water tactics.
Northern Pike and Panfish:
Northern pike are active around weed edges and shoreline structures, especially on warmer days. Jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, and large cranks are drawing strikes. For panfish seekers, rock bass, crappie, and bluegills are feeding near docks and submerged brush piles.
What’s New:
The DEC recently conducted night electrofishing surveys to monitor black bass and sunfish populations. These efforts ensure that Keuka remains a balanced, sustainable fishery for years to come.
Where the Fish Are Biting
On Keuka Lake, hotspots include the bluff area, Branchport arm, and the southern end near Hammondsport. Seneca anglers are focusing efforts near Sampson State Park and the drop-offs along the eastern shoreline.
Mobile apps like Fishbrain and FishAngler confirm high catch activity in both lakes, with Keuka leading in logged catches for bass, and Seneca showing consistent success for trout and pike.
