Boating At Chautauqua Lake In New York

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Chautauqua Lake, nestled in the southwestern region of New York, is a scenic gem and a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. With a length of about 17 miles, the lake offers breathtaking views and a tranquil environment, making it a popular spot for nature lovers. The Chautauqua Institution, a renowned center for arts and education, sits on the lake's shores and attracts thousands of people each year with its cultural events and performances.

Boating is a cherished pastime on Chautauqua Lake, and there are several marinas scattered along its coastline, providing services and facilities for boaters. Boat launch ramps are conveniently located, allowing boating enthusiasts to access the lake's crystal-clear waters with ease. From leisurely cruises to thrilling water sports like jet skiing and water tubing, Chautauqua Lake caters to a variety of boating preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy on the water.

For those looking to explore the lake but don't own their own boats, rental boat options are available. Rental boats offer a convenient way to experience the serenity and recreational opportunities of Chautauqua Lake without the need for boat ownership, making it accessible for all visitors to partake in the lake's allure.

Fishing is another major attraction at Chautauqua Lake, drawing anglers seeking an abundant catch. The lake boasts an array of fish species, including muskellunge, walleye, bass, and panfish, creating a haven for fishing enthusiasts to test their skills and enjoy the thrill of the catch.

There are various campgrounds nearby, providing opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and extend their stay to fully appreciate all the lake has to offer. With its scenic splendor and diverse recreational opportunities, Chautauqua Lake remains a treasured destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers in New York.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Boating, water sports and fishing await visitors at Chautauqua Lake, a 13,000-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, at Chautauqua. More than a half dozen boat launch ramps are scattered around the lake, and multiple marinas provide a host of products and services for the boating and fishing visitors. Much of the shoreline is lined with private property, many with boat docks. There are two basins with over 40 miles of shoreline wrapping this fertile fishery, with plenty of weeds and aquatic vegetation near shore at both ends of the lake. The lake supports healthy populations of bass, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch and muskie, and is known for big muskie and quality largemouth and smallmouth bass. Spring and fall are ideal times to fish the shorelines and shallow areas. In summer as the lake warms, many of the fish will move to deeper water. In winter, when the ice is safe, Chautauqua is an excellent ice fishing lake. Walleye, perch and crappie are the popular species through the ice. Anglers wishing to fish from the bank can find access at many areas around the lake, including near boat ramps, parks and camping areas.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Wildwood Acres Campground - 716 386-7037

Camp Prendergast Campground - 716 789-3485

Creek-N-Lake Camp Campground - 716 753-7757

Chautauqua Lake KOA Holiday Campground - 716 386-3804

Peachie's Lakeside Camping - 716 640-1068

Camp Chautauqua Campground - 716 789-3435

Chautauqua Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Chautauqua Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch and muskie.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Black crappie Walleye Bluegill Pumpkinseed Sunfish White Perch Yellow Perch Muskie