Third Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes in Herkimer County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Herkimer County, New York, is where Third Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes sits. The setting is mixed forest on every side. The town to know is Boonville, 28 miles out. Syracuse is the closest city, 78 miles away. You are close to a county edge here; who manages the access can change within a short drive. Ground round the water is easy walking in most parts.

• Where to Fish on Third Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes

  Depth is unknown to us, and the shoreline is the better guide. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Records held for Herkimer County cover white sucker, yellow perch and brook trout. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. On Third Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes the obvious spot is not always the productive one.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 64°F on average, January about 13°F. Seasons are distinct, and each one fishes differently. The lid usually goes in mid April, which opens the strongest weeks of the year. Ice usually gives way near mid April, and forms again about early December. The weeks after the thaw and the ones before the freeze are the strongest. Expect Third Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes to follow that timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Our records carry no access rule either way. Expect a half a mile walk in from where the car goes. Public data records a pier about half a mile out. For the bass here, soft plastics worked slow along cover and a spinnerbait for searching do most of the work. Ask in the nearest town if you are unsure. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. The nearest alternative is Second Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes, 0.8 miles out. Check the position at Third Lake, Fulton Chain Lakes before loading the car.