The finest smallmouth bass fishing in New York State and, arguably, the entire United States, can be found in the waters of Lake Erie. Smallmouth Bass, we call them “bronzebacks”, are found along the entire New York shoreline from Buffalo to Pennsylvania, with hotspots along rocky structure and drop-offs in 15 to 35 feet of water. Most bass caught are between 2 and 4 pounds, but there is good opportunity to catch a hefty 5 or 6 pound trophy bronzeback. The last five New York State record smallmouth have come from Lake Erie, with the current record standing at an impressive 8 pounds, 4 ounces. Captain Randy’s Boat Record stands at 6 pounds, 2 ounces. In Erie and Niagara County.
Smallmouth bass are the most frequently caught fish species in Lake Erie and fishing trips for smallmouths make up about 25% of my Lake Erie fishing trips for the entire year. Anglers travel from across the country to fish for these Lake Erie bronzebacks. The Bassmaster Elite Series also periodically makes tournament stops at our top smallmouth bass fishery out of Buffalo, New York, and tournament catches make for spectacular television shows.
Anglers can enjoy the early trophy bass season on Lake Erie to take advantage of the unforgettable fishing available for smallmouth bass during spring. From the 1st Saturday in May to the regular season opener of statewide black bass season on 3rd Saturday in June, anglers may take one trophy bass at a minimum of 20 inches per day in Lake Erie. The use of natural baits is permitted during Lake Erie’s early bass season.
We’re the place to call for Lake Erie bass fishing near Buffalo, NY!