Alex Bottcher of Elmira, NY was fishing from a kayak on the west shore of Waneta Lake on September 22, 2007 when he caught this incredible muskie. The fish was was 38 inches long and weighed in at an amazing 14 lbs. He was using an artificial lure for bait. After a fierce and lengthy battle he was able to land this wonderful trophy.

  If you decide to try kayak fishing please wear a life vest all times and be on the look out for other boaters who may not be aware of your presence.

  Waneta and Lamoka Lakes are located between Keuka and Seneca Lakes. Both lakes were formed by the same glaciers that formed the Finger Lakes, but on a much smaller scale. Sometimes know as the minor or baby Finger Lakes, they are not deep enough to support a trout fishery, but are a fantastic warm water habitat. Both lakes are linked by a canal that is right on County Route 23. The DEC has a launch for each lake one on each side of the road. These two lakes are very popular with bass fisherman and can be very crowded on the weekends.

  Both lakes have substantial fish populations comprised by the following species of fish. Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Muskellunge, Yellow Perch, Rock Bass, Pumpkinseeds, Bluegills, Black and White Crappies, Brown Bullhead, Red Bellied Sunfish, Catfish, and Carp. Golden Shiners and Alewife (sawbelly) constitute the main forage base. This is one of the few relatively shallow lakes with such a forage base and is partly responsible for the fantastic growth rate these fish have. Muskies of over 40 pounds have been taken here and bass near the 10 pound mark are caught here as well.

  Two seperate strains of muskellunge can be found in New York States waters. The St. Lawrence strain is found in the St. Lawrence River and it's tributaries. They may also be found in Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. The Ohio strain occurs in Chatauqua Lake and the Allegheny River. The New York State record was of the St. Lawrence strain and it weighed in at an incredible 69 pound 15 ounces. This fantastic specimen was caught from the St. Lawrence River by Arthur Lawton in 1957.

  If you would like to learn more about Pike and Muskellunge Fishing In NY please read our article on Pike and Muskellunge Fishing In NY to learn more about where and when to catch that trophy fish of a lifetime.

   The following links break down the best fishing options according to the month of the year. Certain times of the year present excellent fishing opportunities for differnt species and can help make the best of your limited free time.