Tap for sound
Get In The Brat Hot Tub

Cayuga Lake

Tompkins County, New York
42,910 acres
Black Crappie Bluegill Brown Bullhead Brown Trout Carp Channel Catfish Drum (Sheepshead) Lake Trout Largemouth Bass Northern Pike Pumpkinseed Rainbow Trout Rock Bass Smallmouth Bass White Crappie Yellow Bullhead Yellow Perch

About Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake stretches across a significant expanse in Tompkins County, New York, providing a spacious setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Its vast surface area creates a broad aquatic environment that invites exploration and appreciation of nature. Despite its large size, the lake's maximum depth is recorded as zero feet, indicating unique depth characteristics that influence the water's accessibility and habitat. The lake is surrounded by several small towns including Trumansburg, Interlaken, and Northwest Ithaca, which add to the local charm and accessibility. Nearby state parks such as Taughannock Falls State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park frame the lake's natural context, offering scenic backdrops and enhancing the overall outdoor experience in the region.

Surface area
42,910 acres
Lake-Link Score
12.2

Fish species

Black Crappie, Bluegill, Brown Bullhead, Brown Trout, Carp, Channel Catfish, Drum (Sheepshead), Lake Trout, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Pumpkinseed, Rainbow Trout, Rock Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Crappie, Yellow Bullhead, Yellow Perch

Fishing Cayuga Lake

Fishing on Cayuga Lake feels like stepping into a rich aquatic world where a variety of species thrive. Anglers can expect to encounter an impressive mix of fish including Black Crappie, Bluegill, and both Brown and Rainbow Trout. The presence of both Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass adds to the lake's appeal for bass fishing enthusiasts. The diversity extends further with species like Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Channel Catfish, making the fishing experience versatile and rewarding. This blend of species supports a dynamic fishing environment that caters to different angling preferences throughout the seasons.

Ice fishing

Ice fishing on Cayuga Lake offers a unique seasonal adventure that draws anglers to its frozen expanse. The experience of fishing through the ice here adds a different dimension to the outdoor activity, connecting anglers with the lake's winter character. This seasonal pursuit enhances the year-round appeal of the lake for those who enjoy fishing in colder months.

Cayuga Lake map

Explore the lake and surrounding area.

Open full map

Fishing conditions

Sun and moon information for planning time on the water.

Sunrise and sunset

Loading sun times…

Current moon phase

Loading moon information…

Plan a trip to Cayuga Lake

Find guides, lodging, and RV rentals near your destination.

Fishing guides

Find experienced guides serving the surrounding area.

Find a guide

Places to stay

Search hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals near the lake.

Find lodging

Lake information is provided for planning and recreational use. Conditions, depths, access information, and regulations may change. Always follow posted notices and local regulations.

Menu