Fishing Charters in New York
Browse fishing charters in New York that can help you catch smallmouth bass.
Popeye Charters
LAKE ONTARIO SPORTFISHING Browns • Steelhead • Lakers • Coho • Chinook Salmon • Smallmouth Bass • Walleye
Adirondack Champlain Guide Service
The Adirondack-Champlain Guide Service specializes in Lake Champlain fishing for smallmouth bass in the trophy category. We have been guiding clients for over 32 years working out of our Lodge on Long Pond, located in Willsboro, NY. Our extensive knowledge of Adirondack fishing is unsurpassed, combined with our intimate knowledge of Lake Champlain has made us the number one guide service in the Northeast.
Aarons Guide Service & Fishing Charters
Great Sacandaga Lake in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York has giant Northern Pike, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass & Perch. Aaron's Guide Service Fishing Charter Great Sacandaga Lake, New York has all their trophy fish shown on this page. These are some of the big fish we catch while casting and jigging for big fish. We photograph all our big fish that are caught outside the capital region.
Schultz Sportfishing
What's New at Schultz Sportfishing the latest Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Steelhead, Salmon & Trout fishing information report & pictures
Good Times Sportfishing - Pulaski Fishing Charters
Good Times Sportfishing Charters offers the very best king salmon and brown trout guided Mexico Bay area fishing trips from the Salmon River area of Pulaski NY on Lake Ontario. We now also offer another boat for Henderson Harbor smallmouth bass charters.
A-Bay Fishing
A-Bay Fishing Charters, 1000 Islands Fishing Charters, Alexandria Bay Fishing Guide, charter fishing and fishing guides in the Thouasand Islands Region of the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario and the Indian River Lakes, Fishing for Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, & Muskie. Complete Hunting and Fishing Guide Services located in northern New York.
Niagara River Guide Service
Niagara River Guide Service is the oldest and most respected charter fishing service in the Western New York region for salmon, steelhead, lake trout, smallmouth bass, walleye, and muskies on the Niagara River and Lake Ontario and Lake Erie
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Cooperstown. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Otsego Lake near Cooperstown is a fantastic place to pursue smallmouth bass. The lake's rocky structure, clear water, and abundant forage create an ideal environment for these hard-fighting fish. Smallmouth fishing heats up in the late spring and remains excellent throughout the summer and into the fall. Look for smallmouth around rocky points, submerged humps, and along drop-offs. Tube baits, drop-shot rigs, and crankbaits are all effective presentations. Don't overlook topwater lures during low-light conditions. A local tip: the eastern shoreline of Otsego Lake, with its numerous rocky outcroppings, is a consistent producer of smallmouth. Be prepared for clear water conditions and use fluorocarbon leaders for increased stealth. Also, be aware of boat traffic, especially on weekends. Smallmouth in Otsego Lake average 1-3 pounds, but fish exceeding 5 pounds are regularly caught. The deep, clear water makes for some incredibly scenic and exciting smallmouth fishing.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smallmouth Bass in Cooperstown.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in New York
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Check specific water body regulations for exceptions. Some waters may have catch and release only seasons.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New York state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in New York
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for smallmouth bass around Cooperstown?
Smallmouth bass in the Cooperstown area are often caught using various lures and baits. Popular choices include tubes, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and live crayfish.
What is the size limit for smallmouth bass in New York?
In New York, the minimum size limit for smallmouth bass is 12 inches. Any fish smaller than that must be released back into the water.
What is the daily limit for smallmouth bass in the Cooperstown region?
The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass is 5 fish per person. Be sure to stop fishing for them once you have your limit.
Is there a specific season for smallmouth bass fishing near Cooperstown?
No, the season for smallmouth bass is open year-round in New York. You can fish for them anytime as long as you have a valid fishing license.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in New York
Other Species to Fish in Cooperstown
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Cooperstown?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.