Hey there, angler! Ready for a killer day on Lake Ontario? Our extended half-day trip is the sweet spot for serious fishing without burning a full day. We're talking 6 solid hours of chasing trophy salmon and trout across some of the lake's most productive spots. Captain Bob knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on the fish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your buddies, your better half, or just yourself and let's hit the water!
First things first - we're all about the fish, but safety comes first. We'll kick things off with a quick rundown of the boat and gear. Then it's lines in! We've got a few tricks up our sleeve to keep things interesting. We might start off trolling the open water, then switch it up and drop some lines deep for lake trout. If the salmon are running, we'll chase them near the surface. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility - we go where the fish are biting. And let's not forget the views - Lake Ontario's got some seriously stunning scenery. Between fights with big fish, take a moment to soak it all in. Oh, and don't forget your camera - you'll want proof of that monster you're about to catch!
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. We're running a top-notch setup here with downriggers, planer boards, and dipsy divers. This lets us cover all depths and really dial in where the fish are hanging out. We'll be using a mix of spoons, plugs, and cut bait - whatever's getting the bites that day. Captain Bob's always tweaking things, so don't be shy about asking why we're using certain lures or techniques. This isn't just a fishing trip, it's a chance to up your game. And hey, if you've got a lucky lure, bring it along! Just remember, on Lake Ontario, sometimes bigger is better when it comes to tackle. These fish aren't messing around, so we come prepared for a fight.
Lake Ontario's been on fire lately! We've been seeing some real bruiser Chinooks in the 20-30 pound range, and the Coho action has been non-stop. One group last week limited out on Cohos in just a couple hours - talk about hot fishing! The lake trout have been hanging deeper, but when we find them, it's game on. And don't sleep on the brown trout - we landed a 15-pounder last month that put up one heck of a fight. Every trip's different, but that's the beauty of it. You never know when that rod's gonna go screaming and you'll be battling the fish of a lifetime.
Chinook Salmon: The king of the Great Lakes, Chinooks (or "Kings") are the heavyweights we're all after. These bruisers can top 30 pounds and when they hit, hold on tight! They're most active in late summer and early fall, making big runs up the tributaries. Chinooks are known for their hard-fighting spirit and those blistering runs that'll have your drag singing. Landing a big King is a bucket-list item for any serious angler.
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 typically in the 5-10 pound range, but what they lack in size they make up for in acrobatics. Cohos are known for their spectacular jumps and quick runs. They're most active in spring and fall, and they school up, so when you find them, the action can be fast and furious.
Lake Trout: The deepwater denizens of Lake Ontario, lake trout (or "lakers") are the marathon runners of the fish world. They prefer the cold, deep waters and put up a steady, powerful fight. Lakers can grow huge, with 20+ pounders not uncommon. They're available year-round, but fishing is best in spring and fall when they come to shallower waters. If you're into jigging, dropping a line for lakers can be a blast.
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These high-flying acrobats are a favorite among anglers for their spectacular fights. Steelhead in Lake Ontario typically range from 5-15 pounds and are known for their lightning-fast runs and aerial displays. They're most active in the cooler months, with great fishing from fall through spring. Hooking into a chrome-bright steelhead is an experience you won't soon forget.
Brown Trout: Often overlooked, brown trout in Lake Ontario can grow to trophy sizes. They're cunning predators, often hanging around structure and drop-offs. Browns are most active in the spring and fall, when they move into shallower waters. They're known for their powerful runs and tendency to dive deep when hooked. Landing a big brown is a true test of an angler's skill.
Look, I've been guiding on Lake Ontario for years, and I still get pumped every time we head out. There's just something special about this place. Maybe it's the chance at a 30-pound King salmon, or the way the lake can change from glass-calm to choppy in a heartbeat. Maybe it's the camaraderie that comes from sharing a boat and the excitement of a big catch. Whatever it is, this lake has a way of getting under your skin. I've seen first-timers turn into lifelong Lake Ontario addicts after just one trip. And the best part? Every day is different. The fish are always moving, always changing patterns. It keeps you on your toes and makes each trip an adventure.
Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're itching to get out on Lake Ontario and tangle with some serious fish, this is your chance. Our 6-hour trip is the perfect mix of serious fishing time without eating up your whole day. Remember, we're running Paypal or cash only at departure, so come prepared. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak salmon and trout seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time on the big lake, we've got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Book your spot now and let's make some Lake Ontario memories!
Brown trout are the crafty characters of Lake Ontario. These golden-brown beauties typically run 4-8 pounds, with some monsters pushing 15+. You'll often find them hugging the bottom in 20-40 feet of water, especially near rocky structure or drop-offs. Spring and fall offer prime fishing as they move shallower. Browns are known for their cautious nature and hard fights once hooked. Their light, flaky meat is a favorite among anglers. To fool these smart fish, try slow-trolling with small spoons or stickbaits. A local tip: when you find one brown, work that area thoroughly - they often school up. Browns can be finicky, so downsizing your line and lures can make a big difference on tough days.
Chinook salmon, or kings, are the bruisers of Lake Ontario. These powerhouses average 15-25 pounds, with some topping 30+. You'll often find them deep, 50-100 feet down, near underwater structure or following baitfish schools. Late summer and early fall offer peak action as they bulk up for spawning. Kings are prized for their hard-pulling, determined fights - be ready for long battles. Their rich, red flesh is top-notch eating. To target these beasts, we'll often use downriggers with large spoons or cut-bait rigs. A local secret is to add a bit of scent to your lures - kings have keen noses. When you hook up, let the fish run initially to tire it out. Kings can turn a relaxing day into an arm-wrestling match in seconds!
Coho salmon, also called silvers, are hard-fighting fish that'll test your gear and skills. Adults typically run 8-12 pounds here on Ontario, with some topping 15. Look for them suspended 20-50 feet down, often near temperature breaks or baitfish schools. Fall is the peak season as they stage for their spawning run. Cohos are known for sudden, blistering runs and spectacular jumps - keep that rod tip up! Their bright orange meat is excellent for the table. To entice bites, try trolling with flashy spoons or cut-bait rigs. A local trick is to use glow lures early and late in the day. These salmon can be aggressive one minute and lockjawed the next, so be ready to change tactics if the bite slows.
Lake trout are the deep-dwelling giants of Ontario. These silver-grey bruisers average 10-20 pounds, with some topping 30. You'll find them hugging the bottom in the deepest parts of the lake, often 80-150 feet down. Summer offers consistent action, but spring and fall can be dynamite as they move shallower. Lakers are known for their dogged, powerful fights - get ready for a workout! Their rich, oily flesh is fantastic smoked. To target these depths, we'll use downriggers or copper line with large spoons or cut-bait rigs. A pro tip: use your electronics to find schools of baitfish near the bottom - lakers won't be far. When you hook up, keep steady pressure and be patient. These fish often make several strong runs before coming to the net.
Rainbow trout are a favorite target on Lake Ontario, known for their acrobatic fights and tasty flesh. These beauties typically range from 2-8 pounds, with some trophies pushing 15+. You'll find them suspended in cooler water, often 30-60 feet down in summer. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move shallower. Rainbows hit hard and leap repeatedly - hang on tight! Their pink meat is prized for the grill or smoker. To boost your odds, try long-lining with spoons or small plugs behind the boat. When you see arches on the fish finder, slow down and work that area thoroughly. These trout can be picky, so don't be afraid to switch up lure colors until you find what they want that day.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercruiser
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
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Horsepower per Engine: 130