What Ampersand Bay Offers

Ampersand Bay is a shallow, marshy extension of Saranac Lake in the northern Adirondacks, roughly 20 miles southwest of Plattsburgh. It sits at the foot of Ampersand Mountain and connects to the main body of Saranac Lake through a narrow channel. The bay is known for warm-water fishing—largemouth bass, pickerel, and panfish dominate the catch—and for being quieter and more sheltered than the larger lake. The shallow bottom and extensive weed beds make it productive in spring and fall, though summer heat can push fish deeper and make midday fishing slow.

Access is straightforward: a public boat launch sits at the end of Ampersand Road in Saranac Lake village. The launch has parking and a small fee (typically $5 to $10 per day, though this varies). From there, you motor or paddle into the bay itself, which takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on your speed and the channel conditions. The bay is protected from wind by surrounding forest and the mountain, making it a good choice on days when the main lake is rough.

Key Takeaways

  • Ampersand Bay is a shallow, weedy extension of Saranac Lake best fished in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) when water temperatures favor bass and pickerel.
  • Access is via the public launch at the end of Ampersand Road in Saranac Lake village; parking and launch fees apply.
  • New York fishing licenses are required for all anglers 16 and older, and Saranac Lake is open year-round to ice fishing in winter.
  • Largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and sunfish are the primary species; bass season runs year-round with a 12-inch minimum size limit.
  • The bay's shallow, marshy character makes it vulnerable to low water in late summer and early fall, which can limit boat access.

Species and Seasons

Largemouth bass are the main draw. They spawn in the shallows in May and June, making that period excellent for sight-fishing around the weed beds and fallen timber. Fall (September and October) is equally productive as bass feed heavily before winter. Summer fishing is possible but requires patience—fish move to deeper channels and the edges of weed beds during the heat of the day. Winter ice fishing for bass and pickerel is popular; the bay typically freezes solid by late December.

Chain pickerel are abundant and aggressive, especially in spring. They hit spinnerbaits and crankbaits readily and fight hard for their size. Sunfish and bluegill are plentiful and make for good family fishing or a reliable backup if bass are slow. The bay also holds some yellow perch, though they are not a primary target.

Bass season in New York runs year-round with a 12-inch minimum size limit and a daily limit of five fish. Pickerel have no closed season and no size or bag limit. Panfish (sunfish and bluegill) have no size limit and a daily limit of 50 fish combined. Check the current New York fishing regulations before you go, as rules can change.

Boat Access and Launch Details

The Ampersand Road public launch is the only motorized access to the bay. The ramp is concrete, well-maintained, and suitable for small to mid-size boats. Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the launch; spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays, especially in May and September. Arrive early or plan to fish on weekdays if you want reliable parking.

The channel from the launch into the bay is narrow and shallow in places, particularly during low-water periods in late summer and early fall. Boats drawing more than 2 feet may run aground. Canoes and kayaks have no such restriction and can navigate the shallows easily. The bay itself is roughly 150 acres and averages 8 to 12 feet deep, with deeper holes near the channel entrance.

No gas stations or supplies are available at the launch. The nearest services—fuel, food, tackle shops—are in Saranac Lake village, about 2 miles away. Plan accordingly and fill your tank before heading to the launch.

Fishing Techniques and Gear

For bass, spinnerbaits and crankbaits work well in spring when fish are shallow and active. Soft plastics—4- to 6-inch worms and creature baits—are effective year-round, especially in fall. Work the weed edges and around fallen trees. Topwater lures produce strikes in early morning and late evening, particularly in May and June.

Pickerel respond to the same lures as bass but are less selective. They hit fast-moving baits and will chase topwater plugs. Live baitfish—shiners or small sunfish—work if you prefer that approach, though they require a fishing license for bait collection or purchase.

For panfish, small jigs tipped with live worms or maggots are standard. Ultralight spinning gear (4- to 6-pound test) is ideal for sunfish and bluegill and makes for fun fishing. Fly fishing is possible in the bay's shallows, especially for panfish and smaller bass.

Regulations and Licensing

All anglers 16 and older must carry a valid New York fishing license. Licenses are available online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website, at tackle shops in Saranac Lake, and at many sporting goods stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-season license and is a reasonable option if you are visiting for a short trip.

Saranac Lake is open year-round, including winter ice fishing. If you plan to fish through the ice, check ice thickness before venturing out—the DEC recommends a minimum of 4 inches for walking and 5 to 7 inches for vehicles. Local bait and tackle shops can advise on current ice conditions.

The bay is part of the Saranac Lake public water system, so no special permits are needed beyond your fishing license. Respect posted signs and private property boundaries around the shoreline.

When to Fish Ampersand Bay

Spring (April through May) is the peak season. Water temperatures rise into the 50s and 60s, bass move to the shallows to spawn, and pickerel are aggressive. The weather is unpredictable—expect rain and cold snaps—but fishing is reliable. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

Fall (September through October) is equally good and often overlooked. Water cools, bass feed heavily, and the Adirondack foliage is at its best. Early fall (September) is warmer and more comfortable; late fall (October) can be cold and windy but produces excellent fishing. By November, water temperatures drop and fishing slows.

Summer (June through August) is the slowest season. Heat pushes fish deeper, and weed growth can be thick. Early morning and late evening sessions are your best bet. Winter ice fishing is productive but requires cold, stable ice and appropriate gear.

Nearby Amenities and Lodging

Saranac Lake village, 2 miles from the launch, has restaurants, lodging, and tackle shops. The Saranac Lake Fish Hatchery is nearby and worth a visit if you have time. Ampersand Mountain, visible from the bay, has a hiking trail to the summit (about 3 miles round trip) if you want to combine fishing with other activities.

Camping is available at nearby state campgrounds, including Saranac Lake Islands and Fish Creek Pond. Private cabins and hotels in the village range from budget to upscale. Book lodging in advance during peak seasons (May and September).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Ampersand Bay in winter?

Yes. The bay typically freezes solid by late December and remains fishable through February. Ice fishing for bass and pickerel is popular. Check ice thickness (minimum 4 inches for walking) before going out, and bring appropriate cold-weather gear and safety equipment.

What is the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) and late evening (5 p.m. to sunset) are most productive, especially in spring and fall. Summer midday fishing is slow; focus on early and late hours. Overcast days are often better than bright, sunny days.

Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?

A boat is strongly recommended. The bay's shallow, weedy character and the distance from the launch make shore fishing difficult and unproductive. Canoes and kayaks work well and are quieter than motorboats, which can spook fish in the shallows.

What happens if the water level is low?

Low water in late summer and early fall can make the channel into the bay impassable for larger boats. Check with local tackle shops before launching if you are visiting in August or September. Canoes and kayaks are less affected by low water.

Are there any restrictions on boat size or motor type?

No formal restrictions exist, but the narrow channel and shallow water favor smaller boats and lower horsepower. Trolling motors and electric motors are quieter and less likely to disturb fish or run aground in shallow areas.