Featured Largemouth Bass Charters in Rochester
Expert captains ready to take you on your next largemouth bass adventure.
Best Time to Catch Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass can be caught year-round in Rochester. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Largemouth Bass
If largemouth bass are your target near Rochester, NY, you'll find plenty of options in smaller lakes, ponds, and backwaters connected to the Genesee River. Spring is prime time as largemouth move shallow to spawn, making them accessible with a variety of lures. Target areas with vegetation, docks, and other cover. Summer finds them seeking cooler, shaded areas, so focus on deeper water and heavy cover. Fall sees them feeding aggressively before winter. A local hotspot is Braddock Bay, known for its weedy areas and consistent largemouth action. The smaller lakes south of Rochester, like Honeoye and Canadice, also hold good populations. For boat access, many of these lakes have public boat launches, but be sure to check for any restrictions or fees. Remember to practice catch and release to help maintain the quality of the fishery.
How to Catch Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass Fishing Regulations in New York
Open Season
June 15 - November 30
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
During the closed season (December 1 - June 14), catch and release only is allowed using artificial lures.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New York state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in New York
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to target largemouth bass in Rochester, NY?
The designated season for largemouth bass in Rochester runs from June 15th to November 30th. This is generally considered the best time to fish for them, as it's during their active feeding and spawning periods.
What's the minimum size largemouth bass I can keep in New York State?
In New York, the minimum size limit for largemouth bass is 12 inches. Any bass smaller than that must be released back into the water.
What's the daily limit for largemouth bass in the Rochester area?
You can keep up to 5 largemouth bass per day in the Rochester area, as per New York State regulations.
Do I need a fishing license to catch largemouth bass in Rochester?
Yes, you need a valid freshwater fishing license from the state of New York to legally fish for largemouth bass in Rochester.
More Largemouth Bass Fishing in New York
Other Species to Fish in Rochester
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