Beginner-Friendly Lake Ontario Salmon Fishing

Published Date: September 15, 2025
Fishing

Lake Ontario
$475 - $850 price range
Updated Date: October 9, 2025

Summary

Ready to try your hand at fishing on Lake Ontario? Captain Matt of 716 SportFishing offers a 4-hour charter perfect for newcomers. You'll target salmon like Atlantic, Chinook, and Coho, plus Brown, Lake, and Rainbow Trout. With room for up to 4 guests, it's ideal for a small group or family outing. Don't worry about gear - quality rods, reels, and tackle are provided. This trip focuses on teaching you the basics and building your confidence on the water. As you learn new techniques, you'll take in the beautiful scenery of Lake Ontario and Lake Niagara. It's a laid-back experience designed to introduce you to the joy of fishing, with the bonus of potentially reeling in your own catch. Remember, while the trip is beginner-friendly, deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

Beginner-Friendly Lake Ontario Salmon Fishing

Fishing Fun on Ontario

Scenic view of Olcott, a fishing location

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Chinook Salmon caught while fishing in NY

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Proud catch on Lake Ontario — big King Salmon day!

Two chinook salmon caught while fishing in Olcott

Double catch success on Lake Ontario — two hefty King Salmon in one trip!

Lake Ontario Beginner's Fishing Adventure

Ready to dip your toes into the world of Great Lakes fishing? Captain Matt of 716 SportFishing has you covered with this top-rated 4-hour charter on Lake Ontario. Perfect for newcomers, this trip lets you and up to three buddies target prized catches like salmon and trout without any prior experience needed. With all the gear provided and expert guidance at your side, you'll be reeling in the big ones before you know it. Let's dive into what makes this beginner-friendly outing a customer favorite on Lake Ontario.

What to Expect on the Water

As you climb aboard Captain Matt's well-equipped vessel, you'll feel the excitement building. Don't worry about bringing any fancy gear – the captain's got you covered with quality rods, reels, and all the tackle you'll need. This trip is all about learning the ropes in a laid-back setting. You'll cruise the scenic waters where Lake Ontario meets Lake Niagara, taking in the views while Captain Matt shares local fishing wisdom. He'll show you the basics of casting, how to read the water, and the best techniques for hooking salmon and trout. Whether you're out with family or a group of friends, there's plenty of room for everyone to get hands-on experience. And hey, even if you don't land a monster on your first go, the thrill of the chase and the stunning lake views make for an awesome day out.

Fishing 101: Trolling for Beginners

On this trip, you'll likely be introduced to trolling – a fishing method that's perfect for newbies and a go-to technique on the Great Lakes. Here's the lowdown: Captain Matt will set up multiple lines off the back of the boat, each with lures or bait that mimic the local prey fish. As the boat slowly cruises along, these lines trail behind, presenting an irresistible buffet for hungry salmon and trout. When a fish strikes, you'll hear the exciting zing of the line and it's your time to shine! The captain or first mate will guide you through reeling in your catch, showing you how to work the rod and when to give the fish some slack. It's a team effort, and before you know it, you might be posing with a gleaming Lake Ontario salmon or trout. This method is great for beginners because it allows multiple lines to be fishing at once, increasing your chances of a bite, all while you relax and enjoy the ride.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Lake Ontario is home to some world-class sport fish, and on this trip, you've got a shot at several prized species. Let's break down what you might encounter:

Atlantic Salmon: These acrobatic fighters are a thrill to catch. Known for their spectacular leaps and powerful runs, Atlantics in Lake Ontario typically range from 5 to 20 pounds. They're most active in the cooler months, so spring and fall are prime times to target them. Anglers love the challenge of landing these silver beauties, and their tasty, pink flesh makes them a favorite for the dinner table too.

Chinook Salmon: Also called King Salmon, these are the heavyweights of the lake. Chinooks can tip the scales at over 30 pounds, though 15-25 pounders are more common. They're hard-fighting fish that will test your arms and your gear. Late summer and early fall is when they really start to run, as they prepare for their spawning journey. Landing a big Chinook is often the highlight of any Lake Ontario fishing trip.

Coho Salmon: Smaller than their Chinook cousins but no less fun to catch, Cohos are known for their acrobatics and tasty meat. They usually weigh in between 5-10 pounds and are most abundant in the spring and early summer. Cohos are often more plentiful, making them a great target for beginners looking to get their first salmon on the line.

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These high-flying fish are a blast to catch. Lake Ontario's steelhead are essentially rainbow trout that spend most of their lives in the lake before returning to rivers to spawn. They're known for their spectacular fights, often leaping clear out of the water multiple times. Spring and fall are the best times to target these 5-15 pound battlers.

Lake Trout: The native heavyweights of the Great Lakes, "Lakers" as they're often called, can grow to impressive sizes. While they don't jump like other trout, they put up a dogged fight, often diving deep and testing your stamina. These fish can be caught year-round but are especially active in the cooler months. Catching a big lake trout is like reeling in a piece of Lake Ontario history – they've been swimming these waters for thousands of years.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it! Lake Ontario offers a unique fishing experience that keeps both newbies and seasoned anglers coming back for more. The vastness of the lake gives you that "big water" feel, while the nearby shoreline provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As a beginner, you'll appreciate the relatively calm waters compared to ocean fishing, making it easier to find your sea legs. The diversity of species means there's always something biting, no matter the season. And let's not forget the bragging rights – telling your friends you caught a salmon bigger than your leg is pretty cool. Plus, with a guide like Captain Matt, you're not just catching fish; you're learning skills and local knowledge that'll stick with you for future adventures. Many first-timers find themselves hooked (pun intended) on Lake Ontario fishing after just one trip.

Time to Book Your Spot

So, are you ready to cast off on your Lake Ontario adventure? This 4-hour trip with 716 SportFishing is the perfect way to get your feet wet in the world of Great Lakes fishing. Remember, you don't need any experience – just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a camera to capture your big catch. Captain Matt's expertise, combined with the lake's abundant fishery, means you've got a solid shot at reeling in some impressive fish. Whether you're looking for a fun family outing, a unique date idea, or just want to try something new, this beginner-friendly charter fits the bill. Spots can fill up fast, especially during peak salmon and trout seasons, so don't wait to book your adventure. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite hobby out on the waters of Lake Ontario. Give 716 SportFishing a call and get ready for a day of fishing you won't forget!

Learn more about the species

Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon are prized catches in Lake Ontario, typically running 28-30 inches and 8-12 pounds. These silver beauties spend most of their life at sea before returning to freshwater to spawn. Unlike Pacific salmon, they can spawn multiple times. Look for them in deeper, colder parts of the lake, especially near river mouths. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move in to spawn. Anglers love their acrobatic jumps and powerful runs - pound for pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish out there. Their rich, flavorful meat also makes them a favorite for the dinner table. When targeting Atlantics, try swinging flies or spoons across current seams. A local tip: on sunny days, go deeper with weighted flies to reach fish holding in cooler water.

Chinook Salmon

Chinook, or king salmon, are the heavyweight champs of Lake Ontario. These bruisers average 15-30 pounds but can top 40 pounds. Look for them in deep, cold water, often suspending over underwater structure. Spring and fall are peak seasons as they move shallow to feed and spawn. Chinooks are prized for their powerful fights - hooking one feels like you've snagged a submarine. Their rich, red flesh makes great table fare too. To land a king, try trolling with downriggers using large spoons or cut bait. A local secret: early mornings in late summer, look for kings "porpoising" on the surface as they chase bait. Cast big plugs or spoons for explosive topwater strikes. It's an unforgettable experience when a 30-pounder blasts your lure.

Coho Salmon

Coho salmon, also called silvers, are a favorite target in Lake Ontario. These acrobatic fighters typically run 24-30 inches and 8-12 pounds, though trophy fish over 30 pounds have been caught. Look for them in the cooler, deeper parts of the lake, often near structure or drop-offs. They're most active in spring and fall as they prepare to spawn. Cohos are known for their hard strikes and spectacular aerial displays when hooked. Their bright orange meat is prized for its rich flavor. To land one, try trolling with flashy spoons or plugs near underwater points or shelves. A local secret: early mornings with a slight chop on the water can be prime time for surface-feeding cohos. Cast bright-colored flies or small spoons for exciting topwater action.

Lake Trout

Lake trout are the native heavyweights of Lake Ontario, often running 15-30 pounds with some topping 40. These deep-water dwellers prefer cold, oxygen-rich water, so look for them near bottom structure in 50-150 feet. Spring and fall offer the best action as they move shallower. Lakers are known for dogged, powerful fights - hooking one is like trying to winch up a refrigerator. Their firm, orange flesh is excellent eating too. To target them, try jigging with large spoons or soft plastics over humps and ledges. Trolling with downriggers is also effective. Here's a local tip: in early spring, look for lakers in shallower water chasing smelt. Casting or trolling minnow-imitating lures can produce some big fish during this brief window.

Steelhead Trout

Steelhead are essentially sea-run rainbow trout, and they're a blast to catch in Lake Ontario. These silver missiles average 24 inches but can reach over 40 inches and 20 pounds. They're found in cooler parts of the lake, often near tributary mouths. Fall through spring is prime time as they move towards rivers to spawn. Steelhead are famous for their hard fights and acrobatic leaps - hooking one is like tying into a rocket. Their pink flesh is also great eating. To target them, try drifting eggs or swinging flies in current seams. When lake fishing, downriggers with spoons work well. Here's a pro tip: after a good rain in fall, fish the cloudy water where tributaries enter the lake. Steelhead often stack up there before running upstream.

About the Viking Offshore sport fishing

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: 454 Crusaders

Maximum Cruising Speed: 27

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 220

Welcome aboard Captain Matt's fishing boat, where beginners can dip their toes into the exciting world of Lake Ontario angling. This 4-hour charter is designed with newcomers in mind, offering a relaxed introduction to salmon and trout fishing. You'll have the chance to try your hand at catching various species, including Atlantic, Chinook, and Coho salmon, as well as Brown, Lake, and Rainbow trout. Don't worry about bringing gear - Captain Matt provides quality rods, reels, and tackle, allowing you to focus on learning techniques and enjoying the experience. With space for up to 4 guests, it's a perfect outing for friends or family looking to share a new adventure. The beautiful scenery of Lake Ontario and Lake Niagara serves as a picturesque backdrop while you learn the ropes and reel in your catches. By the end of the trip, you'll have gained confidence in your fishing skills and created lasting memories on the water.

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