If you love fishing or just want to try your luck with a rod and reel, one Upstate New York is calling your name.

Recently named one of the best fishing lakes in the entire United States, this stunning lake is definitely worth a visit.

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A Reel Catch Right on the New York-Vermont Border

Stretching an impressive 120 miles, Lake Champlain runs along the border between New York and Vermont and even dips a bit into Quebec, Canada, at its northern tip. This long, beautiful lake has earned a special place in anglers’ hearts, and it’s not hard to see why.

Once Called the Sixth Great Lake

For a short time, Lake Champlain was officially recognized as the nation’s Sixth Great Lake. While that official name didn’t stick, the nickname lives on, and the lake’s reputation for incredible fishing is very real.

READ MORE: Is Cayuga Lake Under an Impending Environmental Crisis?

Why So Special? The Fish and the Scenery

Fishingbooker.com, the world’s largest fishing charter community, praised Lake Champlain for its “beautiful scenery and a vibrant fishery.” The lake is home to over 90 species of fish, making it a treasure trove for anglers of all kinds. Whether you’re after bass, trout, or something else, there’s plenty to catch here.

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Bass Fishing Paradise

In fact, Lake Champlain is widely considered one of the best bass fishing spots in the world, according to the Lake Champlain Land Trust. And thanks to years of conservation efforts from New York and Vermont groups, the lake trout population is becoming more self-sustaining, which is great news for future generations of fishers.

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Great Lakes Also Make the Cut

And while we’re talking about fishing in New York, don’t forget the official Great Lakes, Erie and Ontario, both partially in New York. Fishingbooker.com included them on the best lakes list too, noting they offer “fishing so good, you almost feel like cheating.”

New York State Free Fishing Days 2025

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the return of New York State's free fishing days for 2025. There are other programs offered like a rod loaner program and a learn to fish program. The license requirement will be waived for freshwater fishing on the following dates:

Gallery Credit: Canva

15 Of New York State’s Most Haunted Fishing Spots

What makes fishing in Upstate New York during October even more thrilling? Halloween and ghost stories. Consider visiting some of the region's haunted spots, where folklore and history come together to create a truly eerie atmosphere. Where are those spots? Glad you asked:

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

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