Donnie is a founder of Basshogg, avid bass fisherman and cottager.
Location: Lake George is located in the southeastern Adirondack State Park. Ticonderoga is to the north, the village of Lake George is to the south.
Size: 120 Km2
Depth: Average 70 ft, Max 196 ft
Species of Fish: Lake Trout, Salmon, Yellow Perch, Northern Pike, Pumpkinseed, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass and more.
Largest Bass Caught: A Largemouth weighing 7 Lbs has been caught in Lake George.
Lake George’s unique bass fishing allure extends to “The Narrows,” a captivating island-filled narrow section spanning approximately five miles [8 km]. Picture yourself casting against the stunning backdrop of the Tongue Mountain Range to the west and the majestic Black Mountain to the east. With over 170 islands, including the state-owned Skipper’s Jib, Vicar’s, and Long Islands, bass anglers have a diverse range of exploration options. Secure permits for camping on most islands, enhancing your bass fishing expedition with a touch of adventure.
The northern end near Ticonderoga marks the southern extent of the Champlain Valley, creating a unique bass fishing experience that connects Lake George with Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh, New York, and Burlington, Vermont.
Smallmouth bass fishing on Lake George presents a thrilling experience, especially when employing specific techniques tailored to the lake’s unique conditions. In this guide, we’ll explore seven effective methods to increase your chances of a successful smallmouth bass catch.
Topwater Excitement (June to July):
Suspending Jerkbaits (All Season):
Hair Jigs for Nesting Males (8-15 feet):
Smelt Imitations (Summer):
Sculpin Patterns (Deep Water):
Crawfish Imitations (Bottom Presentation):
Targeting Perch Schools (Midsummer):
Location and Seasonal Patterns
Largemouth bass enthusiasts, listen up! When it comes to finding these prized fish on Lake George, boat docks are prime locations. Shallow vegetation, abundant on these lakes, serves as excellent bass hideouts. Look for them amidst the shallow grass, especially in flat areas at the north and south ends of the lake. Rocks and various structures are also key spots to explore. While Lake George boasts impressive depths, focus your efforts on water less than 10 feet deep in the early season, gradually deepening as summer progresses.
Techniques
Mastering specific techniques is crucial for successful largemouth bass fishing on Lake George. Around boat docks and shallow weeds, weightless worms like Senkos and Stick Worms shine. Spinner baits, being weedless, are effective and even lure in bonus pickerel and pike. Adjust your approach based on seasonal patterns. In summer, as bass move deeper, crankbaits become a go-to, while jigs excel year-round, mimicking crayfish. Learning the drop shot technique is a game-changer, especially when algae coatings on rocks make baits less visible; the rig keeps the bait above the bottom where it’s visible to the fish.
Lures and Plastic Baits
To entice largemouth bass, imitate the colors of the lake’s baitfish. Watermelon is a standout color for plastic baits. Blend your finesse lure colors with the surroundings; green pumpkin and watermelon hues are reliable choices. From now until the end of the topwater season, try topwater frog or popper lures in shallow, weedy areas.
Equipment
Versatility is key in equipment selection. Learn to handle both spinning rigs and baitcasters. Clear waters favor spinning rods with small-diameter lines, while heavy grass calls for baitcasters with up to 60-pound braid lines. Baitcasters today are more efficient and user-friendly. Opt for a baitcaster for lures with more pull, like crankbaits and spinnerbaits, while spinning rods are ideal for finesse worms and smaller lures.
Habitat
Understanding the diverse habitat and vegetation is crucial for successful largemouth bass fishing. Seek mixtures of grass, especially favored types like milfoil. Other varieties like eel grass, coon tail, lily pads, hydrilla, and stringy sand grass create a dynamic environment. When faced with thick grass, use topwater lures or other lures that stay above the weeds for a successful fishing experience.
Southern Half of the Lake – Largemouth Paradise:
Lower Lake George – Prime Spawning Grounds:
Bolton Landing and Northwest Bay – Beating the Banks for Largemouths:
Rocky Environments for Smallmouths:
Prime Smallmouth Spots towards South End:
Islands and Reefs in the Narrows and Shelving Rock:
Prime Smallmouth Spots Farther North:
Whether you’re in pursuit of largemouths or smallmouths, Lake George offers a diverse range of habitats and strategic locations for a rewarding bass fishing experience. Renowned as one of New York’s most consistently excellent bass lakes, Lake George offers an abundance of largemouth and smallmouth bass, with the promise of landing healthy 2- to 3-pounders and the thrill of encountering 5-pounders of both species.
2 Responses
I enjoy what you guys are usually up too. Such clever work and exposure!
Keep up the great works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to my
blogroll.
Thanks Bruce! We realized last year how much work it is to film and edit our episodes. Hopefully this year we can automate a bit more of the process to allow us to get a few more episodes as well as highlight more lakes in our immediate area. If you have any requests please get in touch. Cheers! Donnie