Expert-Guided Lake Ontario Fishing | Eagle Charters

Reel in Trophy Salmon on Lake Ontario

Get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime on the legendary waters of Lake Ontario. Captain Bruce of Eagle Charters Sport Fishing is your ticket to hooking monster salmon and trout just off the shores of Oswego. This full-day adventure kicks off at the crack of dawn, giving you a solid 8 hours to troll the deep waters and fill your cooler with hard-fighting fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, Captain Bruce's know-how and top-notch gear will have you battling chrome-bright Kings and acrobatic steelhead in no time.

What to Expect on the Water

Your day starts early – we're talking 5:00 to 5:45 AM early. But trust me, those pre-dawn yawns are worth it when you're watching the sun rise over Lake Ontario with a rod in your hand. Captain Bruce's boat is rigged and ready for serious fishing action. You and up to three buddies will spend the day cruising the lake's hot spots, with cutting-edge fish finders pointing the way to the biggest schools. The captain's decades of experience mean you're not just fishing, you're targeting the prime areas where trophy salmon and trout hang out. Expect a mix of downrigger trolling and planer board setups as we adapt to what the fish are doing that day.

Techniques That Land Lunkers

On Lake Ontario, trolling is the name of the game for big salmon and trout. We'll be running a spread of lines at various depths, often using downriggers to get our lures right in the strike zone. Dodgers and flashers help attract attention, while spoons and cut bait are go-to offerings for enticing bites. Captain Bruce is a master at reading the water and adjusting our presentation on the fly. You might find yourself learning the finer points of setting a copper line or how to work a dipsy diver. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques – the crew is there to guide you every step of the way, from baiting up to netting that trophy catch.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"Great trip. Good fishing; great captain and mate. Would recommend Eagle Charters to anyone looking for a great day fiahing andon the water" - Martin

Species You'll Want to Hook

King Salmon: The crown jewel of Lake Ontario, Chinook (King) Salmon are the heavyweights that draw anglers from across the country. These brutes can tip the scales at over 30 pounds, and they fight like freight trains when hooked. Spring through fall is prime time for Kings, with the action really heating up in late summer as they stage for their spawning run. There's nothing quite like the screaming run of a fresh King – it's an adrenaline rush you won't soon forget.

Brown Trout: Lake Ontario's browns are a special breed. These fish grow to massive proportions in the lake's cold, deep waters. Known for their powerful runs and acrobatic leaps, hooking into a big brown is always a thrill. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but you can tangle with these spotted bruisers year-round. Their golden-brown coloration and red spots make for some truly impressive photos.

Coho Salmon: While not as large as their Chinook cousins, Coho Salmon more than make up for it with their aggressive strikes and aerial antics. These silver rockets are known for their delicious, orange-red flesh – perfect for the grill or smoker. Coho fishing heats up in late spring and continues through the summer, offering fast action and great eating.

Steelhead Trout: If you're after a fish that'll make your reel sing, look no further than Lake Ontario steelhead. These sea-run rainbows are famous for their blistering runs and spectacular jumps. Fall through spring is prime time for steelies, with many anglers considering them the ultimate game fish in the Great Lakes. Landing a chrome-bright steelhead is a badge of honor for any angler.

Top Catches This Season

Lake Ontario's 2023 fishing season has been one for the books. Anglers have been hauling in monster Kings pushing 40 pounds, with limits of 20+ pounders becoming almost routine on good days. The brown trout bite has been equally impressive, with several fish over 20 pounds making headlines. Steelhead numbers are strong, with many boats reporting double-digit hookups on peak days. And let's not forget about the Coho – while they might not make the front page, their numbers and willingness to bite have kept rods bent and smiles wide.

Gearing Up for Success

While Captain Bruce provides all the necessary fishing gear, there are a few things you'll want to bring to ensure a comfortable day on the water. Dress in layers – Lake Ontario weather can be unpredictable, and it's often cooler on the water than on shore. A waterproof jacket is a smart addition to your bag. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's reflection off the water. A camera is a must for capturing those trophy moments, and you might want to pack some motion sickness medication if you're prone to seasickness. As for food and drinks, while meals aren't provided, you're welcome to bring a cooler with your favorite snacks and beverages to keep you fueled up for a full day of fishing action.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to feel the weight of a Lake Ontario giant on the end of your line, now's the time to lock in your date with Eagle Charters Sport Fishing. Captain Bruce's trips fill up fast, especially during peak salmon season. With a max of four anglers per trip, you're guaranteed plenty of rod time and personalized attention. Whether you're aiming to fill the freezer with delicious fillets or just want the thrill of battling world-class game fish, this full-day adventure delivers. Don't let another season slip by – book your Lake Ontario fishing expedition today and get ready for some of the best angling the Great Lakes have to offer. Trust me, once you've experienced the rush of a Lake Ontario King Salmon peeling line off your reel, you'll be hooked for life.