Learn to Fish Lake George with Austin Charters

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

$500 price range

Summary

Join Captain Rick for a laid-back 4-hour fishing trip on Lake George, perfect for newcomers to the sport. You'll head out at 6 AM when the lake is calm and quiet, giving you the best shot at hooking Lake Trout, Bass, and Salmon. The captain will show you the ropes of light tackle fishing, trolling, and bottom fishing techniques. If you're visiting in winter, you might even try your hand at ice fishing. This private charter is all about learning at your own pace and enjoying quality time on the water. With room for up to 4 guests, it's a great way to spend a morning with family or friends while picking up new skills. Captain Rick knows all the local hot spots and will make sure you're fishing the most productive areas of the lake. Whether you're hoping to land your first catch or just want to soak in the scenery, this trip offers a relaxed introduction to fishing on one of New York's most beautiful lakes.

Learn to Fish Lake George with Austin Charters

Reeling Them In

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Two people fishing for a lake trout in NY

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Lake George Fishing: Your Perfect First Catch

Ready to dip your toes into the world of fishing? Our Lake George Beginner Fishing Charter is the perfect way to start. Captain Rick knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's all about helping newbies land their first big one. Whether you're looking to learn the ropes or just want a laid-back morning on the water, this 4-hour trip is tailored for folks who want to give fishing a shot without any pressure. We'll head out at the crack of dawn when the lake's still quiet and the fish are biting. It's just you, up to 3 friends, and all the time in the world to figure out your casting technique.

What to Expect on the Water

We kick things off bright and early at 6 AM, which might sound rough, but trust me, it's worth it. The lake's like glass at that hour, and you'll have prime fishing spots all to yourselves. Captain Rick's boat is comfy and well-equipped, so even if you've never held a rod before, you'll feel right at home. We keep the group small – max 4 people – so you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with the captain. He'll show you the ropes on everything from baiting your hook to reeling in the big ones. And don't worry about bringing gear; we've got you covered with quality rods and tackle that'll make you feel like a pro.

Techniques for Newbie Anglers

On this trip, we're all about keeping it simple and fun. Captain Rick's got a few tricks up his sleeve to help you land your first catch. We might start with some light tackle fishing, perfect for getting a feel for the rod and practicing your cast. If the fish are playing hard to get, we'll switch it up with some trolling – that's where we slowly cruise around trailing lines behind the boat. It's a great way to cover more water and up your chances of hooking something. Depending on the season, we might even try our hand at bottom fishing or ice fishing if you're brave enough to venture out in winter. Whatever method we use, the captain's there to guide you every step of the way, from setting the hook to netting your catch.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Lake George is home to some real beauties, and on this trip, we're targeting three fan favorites: Atlantic Salmon, Smallmouth Bass, and Lake Trout. Let's break 'em down:

Atlantic Salmon: These guys are the acrobats of the lake. When you hook one, be ready for a show – they're known for their spectacular leaps and runs that'll test your drag. They average around 3-5 pounds here, but don't be surprised if you land a 10-pounder. Spring and fall are prime time for salmon, when they're most active and hungry.

Smallmouth Bass: Pound for pound, smallies are some of the fiercest fighters in freshwater. They love to hang out near rocky areas and drop-offs. In Lake George, you can expect to catch bass in the 2-4 pound range, but bigger ones aren't uncommon. Summer is smallmouth heaven, when the water warms up and they get super aggressive.

Lake Trout: These are the deep-water monsters of Lake George. Lakers like it cold, so we often find them hanging out in the deeper parts of the lake. They can grow pretty big here – 5-10 pounders are common, but 20+ pound fish are caught every year. Early spring and late fall are great for lake trout when they come up shallower to feed.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Lake George isn't just any old fishing spot – it's a angler's paradise that keeps folks coming back year after year. The lake's crystal-clear waters are home to a healthy, diverse fish population that gives even seasoned fishermen a run for their money. But what really sets this place apart is how beginner-friendly it is. You've got shallow bays where newbies can practice casting, deep trenches for trolling, and everything in between. And let's not forget the scenery – you're surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, so even if the fish aren't biting, you've got million-dollar views to soak in. It's the kind of place where you can learn the basics and grow into a lifelong passion for fishing.

Top Catches This Season

Every season brings its own excitement on Lake George, but this year's been particularly good. We've been seeing some monster lake trout coming up from the depths – just last week, a first-timer landed a 28-pounder that had the whole boat cheering. The smallmouth action has been on fire too, with lots of chunky 4-5 pounders smashing topwater lures near the islands. And for those patient enough to target them, the Atlantic Salmon have been putting on quite a show, with several in the 8-10 pound range testing anglers' skills. Remember, it's not all about size – that first fish you catch, no matter how big, is always the most memorable.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's recap why this Lake George Beginner Fishing Charter is the perfect way to wet your line for the first time. You've got a crack-of-dawn start to beat the crowds, a seasoned captain who lives to teach newbies, and some of the cleanest, fish-filled waters in the Northeast. Whether you're looking to learn the basics, spend quality time with friends, or just enjoy a peaceful morning on the water, this trip's got you covered. And who knows? You might just catch the fishing bug along with your first big one. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to book your adventure. Give Austin Charters a call and let's get you out on the water – your first Lake George catch is waiting!

Learn more about the species

Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic Salmon are a prized catch in Lake George, typically ranging from 28 to 30 inches and 8 to 12 pounds. These silver beauties are anadromous, meaning they migrate between fresh and saltwater. You'll find them in deeper, cooler parts of the lake, especially near underwater structures. Spring and fall are prime seasons, as water temperatures are just right. Anglers love targeting Atlantic Salmon for their acrobatic fights and delicious, pink meat. To boost your chances, try the "swing" technique - cast downstream at a 45-degree angle and let your fly or lure swing in the current. Remember, these fish are endangered, so we practice catch-and-release to help preserve the population. It's all about the thrill of the catch and knowing you're helping protect this incredible species for future generations.

Lake Trout

Lake Trout are the heavyweight champs of Lake George, often reaching 15-40 pounds and 24-36 inches long. These cold-water lovers hang out in the deepest parts of the lake, especially during summer. Spring, right after ice-out, is prime time as they move to shallower waters. Lake Trout are a blast to catch - they put up a stubborn fight and can really test your skills. Jigging is the go-to method here. Try using Rapala Jigging Raps or soft plastic swimbaits on jig heads. A local tip: on overcast days, they tend to feed more actively and might come up higher in the water column. That's when trolling with deep-diving crankbaits can be deadly effective. Lake Trout aren't just about the fight; they're also great eating if you decide to keep one. But remember, they grow slowly, so we encourage catch-and-release to keep the population healthy for years to come.

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass in Lake George are feisty fighters, usually weighing 2-6 pounds. You'll find them around rocky bottoms and submerged logs, especially in clearer, cooler parts of the lake. Early mornings or late evenings are prime times, particularly in spring and fall when they're more active in shallower waters. These bass are popular for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps when hooked. For the best results, try using light spinning gear with 6-10 pound test line. A local trick: on calm days, use weightless plastic worms or small crankbaits that mimic their favorite prey - crayfish and small fish. During summer heat, look for them in deeper, cooler waters. Smallmouth are not just fun to catch; they're also tasty if you decide to keep a few for dinner. Just remember to check local regulations before keeping any fish.

About the 26ft Steiger Craft Pontoon

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Sylvan

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Rise and shine for an early morning fishing adventure on beautiful Lake George! Captain Rick welcomes up to 4 guests aboard for a laid-back 4-hour trip starting at 6 AM. Perfect for beginners, you'll learn the ropes of light tackle fishing while targeting Lake Trout, Bass, and Salmon in some of the lake's best spots. Depending on the season, you might try trolling, bottom fishing, or even ice fishing. The calm morning hours offer prime conditions before the day gets busy. Relax and soak in the scenery as you gain hands-on experience with expert guidance. It's a fun, no-pressure way to build your fishing skills and hopefully reel in some great catches. Remember, this is a learning experience focused on enjoyment rather than filling the cooler. Bring your sense of adventure, and Captain Rick will handle the rest!

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