Expert-Guided Weekend Salmon Fishing on Lake Ontario

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Lake Ontario
$750 price range

Summary

Lake Ontario's weekend salmon and trout charters are perfect for anglers of all levels. You'll spend a full 8 hours on the water, targeting big fish like Chinook and Coho salmon, along with lake trout, browns, and steelhead. The Rod Benders crew knows exactly where to find the action and will show you the best techniques to land your catch. Don't worry about gear – they provide everything you need, from rods and reels to safety equipment. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned pro, the guides offer hands-on help to make sure you're successful. It's a great way to experience Lake Ontario's rich fishery with expert support. You'll cover plenty of water, learning productive spots and methods as you go. With room for four guests, it's an ideal trip for a small group or family looking to make the most of a weekend on the lake.

Expert-Guided Weekend Salmon Fishing on Lake Ontario

Rods Bent, Fish Caught

Chinook salmon caught while fishing in NY

Catch big fish on Lake Ontario

Reel in memories on Lake Ontario

Two rainbow trout caught at 990 Point Breeze Road

Top Lake Ontario fishing spots

Two people fishing for lake trout in New York

Trophy fish await in NY waters

Lake Ontario's Weekend Salmon Bonanza

Ready for some serious rod-bending action on Lake Ontario? Our weekend salmon and trout fishing charter is your ticket to eight hours of non-stop excitement on the big lake. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and we're itching to put you on the fish. From hard-fighting Chinook to acrobatic steelhead, we'll be targeting the cream of the crop in Lake Ontario's world-class fishery.

What's the Deal on Deck?

Picture this: You're cruising out on Lake Ontario as the sun's coming up, coffee in hand, surrounded by your buddies or family. Our captain's at the helm, scanning for the perfect spot while the crew sets up an arsenal of rods. We're talking downriggers, dipsy divers, and maybe even some good old-fashioned flat lines – whatever it takes to get those lures in the strike zone. You'll learn the ropes of Great Lakes trolling, from setting lines to fighting fish like a pro. And when that reel starts screaming? That's when the real fun begins. We're here to make sure you land that trophy, snap some brag-worthy pics, and create memories that'll last a lifetime.

Trolling Tactics 101

If you've never tried Great Lakes trolling before, you're in for a treat. We'll be using a mix of techniques to cover all depths where the fish might be hanging out. Downriggers let us get our lures deep – sometimes 100 feet or more – where those big kings like to chill. Dipsy divers? They're like underwater kites, taking our lures off to the side and down deep. We might even break out some planer boards to spread our presentation wide. You'll see a whole spread of rods out the back of the boat, each one ready to pop at any second. When a fish hits, it's all hands on deck! We'll show you how to fight these powerhouses without losing your cool (or your rod). By the end of the day, you'll be talking about 'mud lines,' 'thermoclines,' and 'bait balls' like you've been doing this your whole life.

What the Regulars Are Saying

Our weekend warriors can't stop raving about their time on the water. Here's what a few of them had to say:

The Big Five of Lake Ontario

Lake Ontario is home to some of the most sought-after game fish in the Great Lakes. Let's break down what we're after:

Chinook Salmon (King Salmon): These are the heavyweights of the lake, often tipping the scales at 20-30 pounds. Chinooks are known for their brutal fights and taste amazing on the grill. Late summer to early fall is prime time for these brutes. When a king hits your line, hold on tight – it's like hooking a freight train!

Coho Salmon: Slightly smaller than their Chinook cousins but just as feisty. Cohos are known for their acrobatic leaps and quick runs. They're typically in the 5-10 pound range and offer some of the best eating around. Spring and early summer are hot for Cohos, but we can find them year-round.

Lake Trout: These deep-dwelling predators are the true natives of Lake Ontario. They love cold water and put up a stubborn fight. Lakers can live for decades and grow to impressive sizes. Jigging for them in the depths is a blast, and they're a wintertime favorite when other species are less active.

Brown Trout: Lake Ontario's browns are something special. They grow big in this massive body of water, often reaching double-digit weights. Browns are known for their wariness and intelligence, making them a true trophy when caught. Spring and fall are prime time for trophy browns near shore.

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): The acrobats of the bunch, steelhead will leave you in awe with their aerial displays. These fish are a blast on light tackle and can be found in good numbers year-round. In the colder months, they'll follow bait into shallower waters, providing some of the most exciting fishing of the year.

Time to Get Your Fish On!

Look, if you're itching for a day full of rod-bending action, stunning views, and the chance to battle some of the biggest freshwater game fish around, our Lake Ontario weekend charter is calling your name. We've got the knowledge, the gear, and the passion to make your trip unforgettable. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer, land that personal best, or just enjoy a day on the water with good company, we've got you covered. The fish are out there, and they're not going to catch themselves. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the boat, and let's make some waves on Lake Ontario. Trust me, once you feel that first hit, you'll be hooked for life. Book now, and let's get after those Lake Ontario giants!

Learn more about the species

Brown Trout

Brown trout are the crafty characters of Lake Ontario. These golden-brown beauties usually run 5-15 pounds, with some topping 20. You'll find them hugging structure in 20-40 feet of water, especially near creek mouths or rocky points. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they move shallow. Browns are known for their cautious nature and strong fights - expect methodical, powerful runs when hooked. Their orange-pink flesh is mild and delicious too. To target browns, try trolling with stickbaits or spoons just off the bottom. A local trick: troll in a zig-zag pattern. The speed changes often trigger strikes from following fish. Whether you're after a cunning adversary or a tasty dinner, brown trout offer both.

Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon are the heavyweight champs of Lake Ontario. These bruisers average 15-25 pounds but can top 30. You'll find them in deeper, cooler water, often 50-100 feet down near structure or bait balls. Late summer through fall is prime time as they bulk up for spawning. Chinooks are legendary fighters - expect long, powerful runs that'll test your gear and skills. Their rich, red flesh is top-notch eating too. To land a king, try downriggers with flashers and flies or big spoons. Here's a local secret: green glow spoons often outfish other colors, especially on overcast days. Whether you're after an epic battle or a gourmet meal, Chinook salmon are hard to beat.

Coho Salmon

Coho salmon are a blast to catch on Lake Ontario. These silver bullets usually run 5-10 pounds and put up a scrappy fight. Look for them in the top 30 feet of water, especially near temperature breaks or bait schools. Late summer through fall is prime time as they stage for their spawning run. Cohos are known for their acrobatics - expect wild jumps and fast runs when you hook one. Their orange-red flesh is prized for its rich flavor too. To land a coho, try trolling with flashy spoons or cut bait rigs. A local tip: speed up your trolling pace now and then. The quick change often triggers strikes from following fish. Whether you're after sport or supper, coho salmon deliver on both counts.

Lake Trout

Lake trout are the deep-water giants of Lake Ontario. These grey-green monsters can top 20 pounds and stretch over 30 inches. You'll find them in the coldest, deepest parts of the lake, often suspended over 100 feet down. Summer is prime time when they retreat to these chilly depths. Lakers are known for their dogged fights - expect long, steady pulls that test your stamina. Their firm, orange flesh makes excellent eating too. To target lakers, try jigging with tube baits or trolling with downriggers and big spoons. Here's a local tip: glow-in-the-dark lures often outfish others in the depths. Whether you're after a true trophy or some prime fillets, lake trout deliver on both fronts.

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are a favorite among anglers on Lake Ontario. These acrobatic fighters typically run 20-30 inches and 3-10 pounds. You'll find them in cooler water, often near drop-offs or underwater structures. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move into shallower water. Rainbows put up an impressive fight, leaping and running when hooked. Their delicate, pink flesh makes great table fare too. To target rainbows, try trolling with spoons or crankbaits 30-50 feet down. A local trick is to use glow lures early morning or on overcast days - rainbows seem to hit these better in low light. Whether you're after the thrill of the catch or a tasty meal, rainbow trout offer both in spades.

About the Rod Benders Sport Fishing

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Crusaider

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 350

Ready for a weekend of fishing action on Lake Ontario? Our 8-hour charter gets you out on the water targeting popular gamefish like Chinook and Coho salmon, plus several trout species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, our experienced guides will show you the ropes and take you to prime spots. We provide all the gear you need, along with hands-on instruction to help you land the big one. Our crew knows the lake inside and out, using proven techniques to improve your chances of success. You'll have a full day to enjoy being on the water while learning from pros who can help refine your skills. With safety equipment on board and structured support throughout, you can focus on reeling in fish and soaking up the Lake Ontario experience. Book your weekend charter now for a productive day of guided fishing with our team of knowledgeable anglers.

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