Muskies     Successful muskie fishermen do not possess secrets that allow them to catch the river's top predator. Instead, they "put in their time." Any angler who trolls a deep diving plug in one of the river's traditional muskie producing areas will eventually hook into a muskie. Anglers should troll their plugs near structural edges and in the deep water adjacent to the structures.     Prime muskie areas include the waters between Halfway and Cedar Islands at Chippewa Bay and the deep water just upriver from American Island near Jacques Cartier State Park.

GPS Readings Chippewa Bay Boat Launch Lat - N 44* 26' 50.0" Long - W 75* 45' 77.1" Schermerhorn Point Boat Launch Lat - N 44* 24' 63.7" Long - W 75* 47' 24.0"

Walleyes     Walleye populations in the river have increased dramatically in recent years. Part of this increase can be attributed to a natural recovery after the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway significantly altered the habit in the 1950's. But the majority of the increase is a result of habitat improvement and restocking efforts by sportsmen's club on both sides of the river.      Better known spots in the area are Chippewa Point and American Island. Deep water (20-50 feet) with current are the areas walleye prefer.

Northern Pike     The northern pike is St. Lawrence's fish for all seasons, but these voracious feeders aren't as easy to catch as they once were. Extremely clear water, deep weed beds, and poorly defined weed edges present challenges for the pike angler; yet good catches are possible.     The larger bays including Chippewa Bay are the most popular pike locations

Smallmouth Bass     Smallmouth bass season opens on the third Saturday in June and early in the season smallmouths are found along the mainland points, island shorelines, rocky areas, and large flats. As summer progresses these fish congregate near deep water points, island drop offs, and mid-river shoals.

Panfish     Yellow perch are by far the most sought after panfish, and anglers catch them year round in all of the river's large bays. Small jigs and minnows work all year while worms are effective in spring and summer.     Bullheads receive significant angler attention in April and May. For many anglers, bullhead season marks the end of winter and the beginning od spring. Angles fish after dark in the river's numerous backwaters and nightcrawlers are the preferred bait.

Accommodations:
Marina:
Schermerhorn Marine Center

To receive a Free copy of the Angler's Guide
Write to: St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Drawer A Canton, NY 13617	Phone: 1 315 386-4000 Fax: 1 315 386-0134	E-mail: slccoc@northnet.org