Species and Tactics

Your Subtitle text

Species and Tactics

Many of the tributaries and surrounding bays are a major part of the New York State stocking program. It is because of this that each year these waters produce many trophy Salmon and Trout.

JD's Custom Charters targets a variety of fish but specializes in:

Tackle Testing King Salmon - These fish are also known as Chinook Salmon have serious power and make strong runs that truly put you to the test. Once hooked up you will encounter drag screaming runs of 100-200 feet of line in seconds. Battles of over 20 minutes will definitely test your endurance. Depending on the time of year, they average 15-25 pounds with many 30 pounders caught every year......Are you ready?

High Flying Silver Steelhead - Rainbow Trout and Steelhead are known for their streamlined bodies and agility. They can make super fast runs in different directions while making multiple jumps that can reach up to 4 feet out of the water! Most fish run between 5 - 12 pounds. Giants of 15 - 20 pounds are caught every year!

Bulldog Brown Trout - A fish truly built for strong runs and staying away from the boat when hooked. Often called football browns because once they max out their length they pile on the width! Depending on the time of year they are usually 6-10 pounds, with fish over 15 pounds not uncommon!

Big Bottom Dwelling Lake Trout - Not very often targeted, these fish hang out in depths up to 150 feet. Every year some 20 + pounders are caught but the average fish is between 4-12 pounds. Lake Trout bite often and fight for their right to STAY on the bottom! These are great for the kids and adults on light tackle!

You let me know what you would like to target that day and we will put together a package that's right for you!

"If it has fins, I have caught it and can help you catch your fish of a lifetime!"

Let's Go Fishing!!

TACTICS

Depending on the time of year fishing we will target fish with a variety of methods. In the Spring, after ice out, the water can be extremely clear and cold making it essential to keep your presentation in stealth mode. Running lighter line with flourocarbon leaders is very important. If fishing close to shore in depths of 10-15 feet or less you will need to get your baits out away from your boat, far away! To accomplish this we use In-line planer boards or a mast style planer board system.

Lures, Lures, Lures!
When we are targeting the shoreline typically we will use small crankbaits and spoons. The cold water makes small prey an easy target for hungry trout this time of year. Smithwick rogues and thundersticks are my go to lures with colors varying depending on the water color that day. Downriggers can come in handy to get some extra lines into your spread............

TO BE CONTINUED......