Biggest Fish in Cayuga Lake

The Biggest Fish in Cayuga Lake: Giants Beneath the Surface

Cayuga Lake, the longest of New York’s Finger Lakes, is not just scenic—it’s deep, cold, and teeming with aquatic life. But for anglers and wildlife enthusiasts, one question often stands out:

What are the biggest fish in Cayuga Lake?

The answer lies in a handful of species that thrive in the lake’s deep waters and rich food web. From predatory trout to lurking pike, Cayuga Lake is home to several true giants, capable of growing to impressive sizes.

Let’s dive into the biggest fish species you’ll find in Cayuga Lake.

1. Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush)

Maximum Recorded Size:

◉ Length: Over 36 inches

◉ Weight: Up to 20–30 pounds (occasionally more)

Lake trout are the undisputed giants of Cayuga Lake. Naturally reproducing in the lake (a rarity in many modern systems), these coldwater predators can live for decades and grow to trophy size. The deepest parts of Cayuga—reaching over 430 feet—offer the cold, oxygen-rich environment lake trout need to thrive.

Anglers target them primarily by deep trolling in the summer and fall. Large individuals are typically caught in the 15–25 lb range, but heavier specimens are not uncommon.

2. Northern Pike (Esox lucius)

Maximum Recorded Size:

◉ Length: 36 to 44 inches

◉ Weight: 10–20 pounds

Cayuga Lake also supports a strong population of northern pike, especially in its shallow, weedy northern and southern ends, where they ambush prey near creek mouths and vegetation. These toothy predators grow large and are a favorite among winter ice anglers and spring shoreline fishers.

While not as long-lived as lake trout, northern pike can grow very fast, and specimens over 40 inches have been reported.

3. Atlantic Salmon (Landlocked Form) (Salmo salar)

Maximum Recorded Size:

◉ Length: 25 to 32 inches

◉ Weight: 6–12 pounds (sometimes larger)

Landlocked Atlantic salmon are a stocked species in Cayuga Lake and thrive thanks to the abundant forage (especially alewives). Although not as bulky as lake trout, some Atlantic salmon in Cayuga have reached double-digit weights — impressive for a fish known more for agility than bulk.

They are often caught near the surface in spring and fall, and deeper during the summer months.

4. Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Maximum Recorded Size:

◉ Length: 30+ inches

◉ Weight: 15–30 pounds or more

Although not a traditional sportfish, common carp are among the heaviest fish in Cayuga Lake. Found in weedy, silty areas—especially near the northern end—they are popular with bowfishers and European-style anglers targeting them for sport.

Carp are bottom-feeders and can grow rapidly in nutrient-rich environments. Mature adults regularly exceed 20 pounds, and a few approach 30+ lbs.

5. Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)

Maximum Recorded Size:

◉ Length: 24–36 inches

◉ Weight: Up to 15 pounds

Less commonly caught than lake trout or bass, channel catfish are still present in the lake’s deeper, warmer areas. Nocturnal and elusive, these bottom-dwellers are usually caught by anglers fishing at night with bait.

They can grow quite large and are among the heaviest native fish aside from trout and carp.

6. Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu)

Maximum Recorded Size:

◉ Length: 18–22 inches

◉ Weight: 4–6 pounds

While not the biggest by sheer size, smallmouth bass are perhaps the most popular sportfish in Cayuga Lake. They grow large by bass standards, with trophy specimens regularly reaching 5 pounds. In competitive fishing circles, Cayuga Lake is known as a top-tier smallmouth destination.

Though not giants like lake trout or carp, they earn their place due to strength and angling value.

Honorable Mentions

Brown Trout – Can reach 10–12 pounds in Cayuga, especially near creek mouths

Chain Pickerel – Smaller cousin to the northern pike, occasionally over 24 inches

American Eel – Rare and migratory, but capable of growing over 3 feet

Final Thoughts

Cayuga Lake may be serene on the surface, but beneath its depths swim some of the largest and most powerful freshwater fish in the northeastern United States. Whether you're casting for a monster lake trout or trying your luck with a 30-pound carp, Cayuga offers real opportunities for trophy fishing — and unforgettable stories.

So yes, there are giants in Cayuga Lake. You just have to know where — and how — to find them.