Scenic Lake Ontario Salmon & Trout Fishing

Published Date: September 15, 2025
Fishing

Lake Ontario
$475 - $850 price range
Updated Date: October 11, 2025

Summary

Ready for a half-day of fishing and sightseeing on Lake Ontario? Captain Matt of 716 SportFishing offers a 4-hour charter that balances angling action with scenic views. You'll target Atlantic, Chinook, and Coho Salmon, plus Brown, Lake, and Rainbow Trout. It's perfect for groups of up to 4 who want to fish while also soaking in the natural beauty of Lake Ontario and Lake Niagara. All the gear is provided, so you can focus on landing fish and enjoying the open water. Between bites, take in the fresh air and wide vistas. This trip is a great way to experience both the thrill of salmon and trout fishing and the peaceful charm of Lake Ontario. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so plan accordingly. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, Captain Matt will ensure you have a productive and enjoyable day on the water.

Scenic Lake Ontario Salmon & Trout Fishing

Lake Ontario Fish & Views

Scenic view of Olcott, a fishing location

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Two Chinook salmon being caught while fishing in NY

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Chinook Salmon caught while fishing in NY

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Proud catch on Lake Ontario — big King Salmon day!

Lake Ontario's Scenic Salmon & Trout Adventure

Ready for a half-day fishing trip that combines the thrill of the catch with breathtaking Lake Ontario views? Captain Matt of 716 SportFishing has you covered with this 4-hour charter that's perfect for anglers who want to reel in some impressive fish while soaking in the natural beauty of the lake. You'll be targeting a variety of salmon and trout species, with top-notch gear provided so you can focus on the fun. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to fishing, this trip offers a perfect blend of action and relaxation on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

As you climb aboard Captain Matt's well-equipped vessel, you'll feel the excitement building. The trip accommodates up to 4 guests, making it ideal for small groups or families. You'll head out onto Lake Ontario's vast waters, where the captain will use his local knowledge to put you on the fish. Between casts, take in the expansive views of the lake and the surrounding shoreline. The fresh air and open water create a peaceful atmosphere that's a world away from the daily grind. And when your line goes tight, get ready for the fight of your life against some of the lake's most prized catches.

Trolling Techniques & Tackle Talk

On this trip, you'll likely be using trolling techniques to target salmon and trout. Captain Matt will set up a spread of lines behind the boat, often using downriggers to get your bait or lures to the right depth. He'll provide high-quality rods, reels, and tackle suited for the species you're after. You might use spoons, plugs, or even live bait to entice the fish. As you troll, keep an eye on the rod tips – when one starts bouncing, it's game on! The captain will guide you through the proper technique to play and land your fish, ensuring you have the best chance of getting that trophy into the net.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Atlantic Salmon: Known for their acrobatic fights, Atlantic salmon are a prized catch in Lake Ontario. These silver beauties can reach weights of 10-20 pounds and are most active in the cooler months. When hooked, they'll often leap clear of the water, creating heart-pounding excitement for anglers.

Chinook Salmon: Also called King Salmon, these are the heavyweights of Lake Ontario. Chinooks can tip the scales at over 30 pounds, and they're known for their powerful runs. Peak season is typically late summer through fall when they start their spawning run. 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, Coho salmon are known for their aggressive strikes and fast runs. They average 5-10 pounds and are often found closer to the surface, making for some exciting topwater action. Coho flesh is prized for its rich flavor, making them a favorite for anglers who like to bring home dinner.

Brown Trout: Lake Ontario's brown trout are renowned for their size and fighting ability. These fish can grow to impressive sizes in the lake's cool, deep waters. They're often caught near shore in the spring and fall, but can be targeted year-round. Brown trout are wary and challenging to catch, making them a favorite among skilled anglers.

Lake Trout: These deep-water dwellers are the native trout species of Lake Ontario. They can live for decades and grow to impressive sizes, with 20-pounders not uncommon. Lake trout prefer colder water, so they're often found in deeper areas of the lake. Jigging for lake trout in 100+ feet of water can be an exciting change of pace from trolling.

Rainbow Trout (Steelhead): These hard-fighting fish are a favorite among Lake Ontario anglers. Known for their spectacular leaps and long runs, steelhead provide an adrenaline-pumping experience. They can be caught in the lake year-round but are especially popular during their spring and fall spawning runs up tributary streams.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Lake Ontario isn't just any fishing spot – it's a world-class fishery that keeps anglers coming back year after year. The combination of big water, big fish, and stunning scenery is hard to beat. On this half-day trip, you get a taste of what makes Lake Ontario fishing so special. The opportunity to catch multiple species of salmon and trout in a single outing is rare, and the potential for trophy-sized fish adds an extra level of excitement to every trip. Plus, with Captain Matt's experience and local knowledge, you're in for a productive and enjoyable day on the water, even if you're new to fishing.

Scenic Shots & Fish Pics

While the fishing action is the main draw, don't forget to bring your camera for this trip. Lake Ontario offers some truly spectacular views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The vast expanse of water, distant shorelines, and the occasional passing freighter make for great photo opportunities. And of course, you'll want to capture those moments of triumph when you land a big salmon or trout. Captain Matt is always happy to snap a quick photo of you with your catch before releasing it back into the lake (if you're not keeping it for the table).

Weather Watch & What to Wear

Lake Ontario's weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to come prepared. Even on warm summer days, it can be significantly cooler out on the water. Dress in layers that you can easily add or remove. A light waterproof jacket is always a good idea, as is a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun's glare off the water. Don't forget sunscreen, as the reflection from the water can intensify the sun's rays. If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before the trip – while Lake Ontario can be calm, it's a big body of water that can kick up some waves.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a fishing trip that offers both action and scenery, this half-day charter with 716 SportFishing is hard to beat. You'll have the chance to tangle with some of Lake Ontario's most sought-after game fish while enjoying the peace and beauty of one of North America's Great Lakes. Captain Matt's experience and friendly approach ensure that both novice and experienced anglers will have a great time. Remember, the boat can only accommodate 4 guests, so spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. Don't miss out on this chance to create lasting memories on Lake Ontario – book your trip today and get ready for an awesome day of fishing!

Learn more about the species

Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon are the giants of the salmon world, typically ranging from 28 to 30 inches and 8 to 12 pounds. They're known for their incredible leaping ability and fierce fights when hooked. Unlike Pacific salmon, these guys can spawn multiple times. You'll find them in Lake Ontario's deeper, cooler waters, especially near structure. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move closer to shore. Anglers love targeting Atlantics for their challenging nature and excellent taste. When fishing for them, try using flies or lures that mimic their favorite prey - herring or smelt. A local tip: on colder days, go with larger, darker flies. These silver torpedoes are a real treat to catch, but remember, they're carefully managed, so always follow regulations.

Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon, also called kings, are the heavyweight champs of Lake Ontario. These bruisers can top 30 pounds, with most catches in the 15 to 25 pound range. They're known for their powerful fights and deep runs when hooked. You'll find them in the lake's cooler, deeper waters, often suspending over structure. Summer and early fall are prime times, with the biggest fish moving closer to shore as spawning season approaches. Anglers target kings for their size, fight, and excellent eating quality. When fishing for Chinooks, try trolling with downriggers using large spoons or cut bait. A local tip: early mornings and overcast days can be hot for king action. Keep your drag set right - these fish can peel off a lot of line in a hurry. Landing a big king salmon is a true trophy experience on Lake Ontario.

Coho Salmon

Coho salmon, also known as silvers, are a favorite among Lake Ontario anglers. They typically run 24 to 30 inches and 8 to 12 pounds, though some monsters push 30 pounds. These acrobatic fighters are known for their spectacular jumps and hard runs. You'll find them in cooler, deeper waters during summer, moving closer to shore in fall as they prepare to spawn. Cohos are great eating fish with bright orange-red meat. When targeting them, try trolling with flashy spoons or plugs near underwater structure. They're often found in schools, so if you hook one, there's likely more nearby. A local secret: early mornings and overcast days can be hot for coho action. Their hard-fighting nature and tasty fillets make them a top target for both novice and experienced anglers.

Lake Trout

Lake trout are the true natives of Lake Ontario, perfectly adapted to its deep, cold waters. These fish typically run 24 to 36 inches and 5 to 15 pounds, though trophy fish over 20 pounds aren't uncommon. They prefer cooler water, so you'll find them deep in summer, sometimes over 100 feet down. Spring and fall are prime times when they move shallower. Lakers are known for their hard fighting ability and tasty, orange-pink flesh. When targeting them, try jigging with large soft plastics or trolling with downriggers. A local tip: use fish finders to locate schools suspended over deep structure. Lake trout grow slowly and can live for decades, so practicing catch and release helps maintain the fishery. Their size, fight, and table quality make lake trout a favorite target for both local and visiting anglers.

Steelhead Trout

Steelhead are essentially sea-run rainbow trout, and they're a prized catch in Lake Ontario. These fish typically range from 5 to 15 pounds, with some topping 20. They're known for their lightning-fast runs and acrobatic leaps when hooked. You'll find them in deeper, cooler waters during summer, but they move closer to shore and up tributaries in fall and spring. Steelhead fishing really heats up from mid-fall through spring. Anglers love targeting them for their challenging fight and tasty, pink flesh. When fishing for steelhead, try drifting eggs or swinging flies in current seams. A local tip: in colder water, slow down your presentation and use larger, more visible lures. Whether you're casting from shore or trolling on the lake, hooking into a chrome-bright steelhead is an experience you won't forget.

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

Captain Matt's 4-hour Lake Ontario fishing trip offers the best of both worlds - exciting angling action and beautiful scenery. Up to 4 guests can join this half-day adventure targeting salmon and trout species like Atlantic, Chinook, Coho, Brown, Lake, and Rainbow. It's perfect for those who want to wet a line while also soaking in the natural splendor of Lake Ontario and Lake Niagara. You'll use top-notch rods, reels, and tackle provided by the captain, allowing you to focus purely on the fishing and views. When you're not reeling in catches, kick back and enjoy the open water, fresh air, and picturesque surroundings. This trip strikes an ideal balance between active fishing and leisurely sightseeing on one of North America's Great Lakes.

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