Black Lake and the nearby St. Lawrence River (1000 Islands) is located in the northern part of New York State near the Canadian border. My guided trips begin when the bass fishing season opens June 15th. Catch and release bass fishing is not allowed in this region prior to June 15th.

Summer and fall in the 1000 Islands region is beautiful. It is also a very popular vacation destination with ample lodging and plenty of things to do. My trips are casting style trips targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass from a 20′ bass boat with space limited for 1-3 anglers plus myself.

1. Black Lake

Famous bass lake with a history for producing solid 4 to 6 pound largemouth and plenty of scrappy smallmouth between 2 and 4 pounds. Called Black Lake for its dark water, it is a shallow lake with abundant weedbeds, classic rock walls, rocky shoals, and rocky points. Live crayfish and shiners are better for relaxation and good results. Artificials are productive for more experienced anglers.

2. 1000 Islands section of the St. Lawrence River

Famous summertime smallmouth fishery with over 1000 scenic islands and incredibly clear water. This fishery is very diverse and the bass are in very specific locations. This is one of the most beautiful freshwater fisheries in the country. We could be fishing within view of both Boldt Castle and Singer Castle as passing freighters navigate the islands on their way to and from the ocean. Smallmouth are still shallow in June and July and easy to catch casting soft plastics. They group up in deep water later in the summer and fall and can be easily caught fishing vertically with a drop shot.

Access points are Chippewa Bay, Goose Bay, Morristown, Alexandria Bay, or Clayton.