wayne Wayne County Fishing Report for January 9, 2018

[Wayne County]

Bays - Sodus and Port Bays have 8 inches of solid ice and even though temps are going to be high this week, it shouldn’t really melt significant ice. Pouring rain could make it messy, however it still should be safe.

 

The perch fishing has been the best in decades with the best fishing out from Arney’s Marina on the north-west side of the bay. Jigs tipped with spikes or perch eyes are catching the 10-inch fish.

 

Perch school so move if you are catching smaller fish. You can also use lager 3-inch rubber minnows. Pick your favorite brand and tip with spikes.

 

Anglers are also catching perch near the south-east end of Sodus and some pike are being caught near LeRoy Island.

 

Port Bay has action at the north end. The south end road hasn’t been plowed so make sure you have a 4X4 if you want to take a chance driving the DEC road.

 

Remember, as ice anglers you are visiting the bays, so don’t trespass on land where you don’t have permission to park. And don’t leave stuff on the ice, like propane tanks. The word is that there have

been parking issues and litter left behind near the loop at Sodus Point. Make sure you respect where you are because the hospitality given to ice anglers can end quickly.

 

Wayne County has an ice fishing guide, which gives you the basics of fishing on our bays. Contact the tourism office if you would like the brochure.

 

Check out the rest of the Wayne County Tourism web page for the locations and hours of local bait and tackle shops. www.waynecountytourism.com.

 

Erie Canal- There is a solid 8 to 10 inches of ice at Widewaters. Shanties were out there on Sunday however not sure what they were catching. The canal has plenty of perch and bluegills with some pike also being caught at Widewaters.

 

This report was written on January 9, 2018 by Chris Kenyon of Wolcott, NY, a regular columnist with the Finger Lakes Times, Sun and Record, Lake Ontario Outdoors and freelance writer with other publications, as well as Recreational Promotional Coordinator for Wayne County Tourism. Chris assists with the Wayne County Youth Derby and other outdoor events. He also takes time to work with the Montezuma Audobon Center on programs involving kids, including their Youth Pheasant Hunt. He is a constant presence at sportsmen's events, shows, and anything involving the outdoors. Kenyon is a tireless advocate for enjoying the outdoors, preserving the environment, and sharing knowledge and skills.