With over three decades of experience navigating the waters out of Sodus Point, Captain Jim Del Real offers a premier Lake Ontario fishing charter experience built on a lifetime of passion. Having started as a deckhand at age eight, Captain Jim has spent 35 years mastering the specific patterns of Sodus Bay and the surrounding Great Lakes. At Diamond J Charters, we pride ourselves on more than just our catch rate; we are dedicated to providing a high-end, private fishing charter in Sodus Point NY that prioritizes hospitality, from offering local lodging assistance to providing complimentary filleting and packaging for your haul at the end of the day. Our vessel, a 37-foot Trojan International, is specifically designed for Lake Ontario sport fishing charters, offering a stable 14-foot beam and twin 454 engines to ensure a smooth ride. Unlike smaller boats, the Diamond J features a climate-controlled cabin, a spacious stand-up head, for ultimate comfort. If you are looking for a great fishing charter for Lake Ontario salmon or trout, we provide all the high-quality rods, reels, and specialized tackle needed for a successful day on the water. What truly sets our Sodus Point salmon fishing charter apart is our commitment to the spirit of sport fishing. We utilize light-action rods and line to target powerhouse species like King Salmon, Coho, and Steelhead, making every strike a memorable battle. This "light tackle" approach ensures that whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, you feel the true power of the fish. We are proud to host multi-generational trips, often welcoming grandfathers, fathers, and sons back year after year. As a top-rated family fishing charter in Sodus Point NY, we specialize in creating a welcoming environment for military veterans, corporate groups, and families looking to bond over the Great Lakes' legendary fishing. Conveniently located at Captain Jack’s Restaurant Marina, we are the ideal choice for those seeking charter fishing near Rochester NY on Lake Ontario. To prepare for your trip, simply secure your New York State fishing license and bring along a cooler, polarized sunglasses, and soft-soled shoes. We handle the rest, from navigating to the most productive honey holes in Wayne County to ensuring your catch is ready for the grill. Contact Diamond J Charters today to book your Lake Ontario charter fishing Sodus Point trip and see why our clients have been returning for over 35 years.

Chinook Salmon

Salmon Fishing out of Sodus Point 

<div>The fishing continues to be steady and they are getting bigger by the day. It is not uncommon to get 35+ bites in less than 6 hours. The crew did a great job on the rods a staying ready with doubles and triples. When they hit the back of the boat many times they are all over the place and can be very challenging to boat. It is quite a accomplishment to get your boat limit congratulations team. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing, Captain Jim </div>

<div>Light Tackle and Spoons</div>

Successful coho salmon fishing trip at Sodus Point NY with multiple fish displayed on boat deck

EPSG:4269

Multiple salmon species caught fishing in Sodus Point NY displayed on boat deck with fishing equipment

Four anglers displaying fresh caught Chinook salmon on fishing boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing charter displaying multiple salmon and lake trout caught in Sodus Point NY

Charter fishing group displays catch of Chinook salmon and brown trout on boat deck in Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing trip at Sodus Point NY with Lake Trout, Chinook Salmon, and Coho Salmon displayed on boat deck

Successful salmon fishing charter at Sodus Point NY with catch of coho and sockeye salmon displayed on boat deck

Atlantic salmon catch displayed on boat deck at Sodus Point NY fishing charter

Fresh caught Chinook salmon lying on boat deck in Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing trip in Sodus Point NY with fresh catch displayed on boat deck

Fresh caught fish displayed on fishing boat deck in Sodus Point NY

Brown trout catch on fishing boat at Sodus Point NY

Two large Chinook salmon caught fishing in Sodus Point NY displayed on boat deck

Brown trout caught fishing at Sodus Point NY on boat

Secure your date with Diamond J Charters today to experience the premier salmon and trout fishing that Sodus Point, NY has to offer! Feel the power of a trophy King Salmon on your line and create lifelong memories on the majestic waters of Lake Ontario with Captain Jim.

Diamond J Charters is a premier Lake Ontario fishing charter based out of Sodus Point, offering family-friendly guided fishing trips for anglers of all experience levels. Led by Captain Jim Del Real, a longtime local guide with decades of experience on Lake Ontario, every trip is built around safety, comfort, and productive fishing opportunities throughout the season. With extensive knowledge of Sodus Bay, offshore structure, and seasonal fish movement, Captain Jim helps guests maximize their time on the water while enjoying a relaxed and professional charter experience. Specializing in Lake Ontario salmon fishing charters, Diamond J Charters targets King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Steelhead, Brown Trout, and Lake Trout using proven trolling techniques and updated fishing patterns. Whether guests are booking a Sodus Point salmon fishing charter during the peak summer bite or targeting spring brown trout closer to shore, Captain Jim adjusts every trip based on weather, water conditions, and current fish activity to deliver the best opportunity for action. These guided fishing trips in Sodus Point NY are ideal for families, beginners, corporate groups, and experienced anglers looking for a dependable Great Lakes fishing charter. Every trip includes quality rods, reels, tackle, and equipment aboard a spacious Lake Ontario charter boat designed for comfort during offshore fishing. Guests can choose from half-day or full-day Lake Ontario fishing trips depending on the season and preferred fishing style. Conveniently located near Rochester, New York, Diamond J Charters has become a trusted choice for anglers searching for private fishing charters on Lake Ontario. From exciting salmon runs to steady trout action, Captain Jim works hard to provide memorable days on the water for every group that steps aboard. Book your Lake Ontario fishing charter in Sodus Point today and experience one of New York’s top destinations for guided salmon and trout fishing.

Find answers to common questions about Sodus Point fishing charter rates, seasonal salmon runs, and what to bring on your Lake Ontario trip with Diamond J Charters to ensure a prepared and successful day on the water.

Captain Jim Del Real has spent nearly his entire life on the water, building the experience and reputation that make him one of the most trusted fishing charter captains in Sodus Point today. His journey began at just eight years old, working as a deckhand along the busy charter docks of New Jersey, where he quickly learned the fundamentals of boat handling, navigation, fish behavior, and the dedication required to operate successful guided fishing trips. Years of hands-on experience on both saltwater and freshwater fisheries eventually led Captain Jim to earn his USCG Captain’s license and pursue his passion full time. Today, he brings more than 35 years of fishing knowledge to Lake Ontario, specializing in family-friendly salmon and trout fishing charters that focus on professionalism, comfort, and creating memorable days on the water. Now based in Sodus Point on the southern shores of Lake Ontario, Captain Jim has become well known for his local expertise and welcoming approach to guided fishing. His fishing charters are built around helping guests enjoy quality time together while targeting trophy King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Steelhead, Brown Trout, and Lake Trout throughout the season. One of Captain Jim’s favorite parts of guiding is watching multi-generational families share unforgettable moments while battling powerful Lake Ontario salmon. Many guests who first stepped aboard years ago now return with their own children, continuing family fishing traditions that have become part of the Diamond J experience. Whether hosting beginners, experienced anglers, military veterans, or corporate groups, Captain Jim focuses on creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable learning Great Lakes fishing techniques and enjoying the excitement of offshore salmon fishing in New York. Beyond running productive Lake Ontario fishing charters, Captain Jim is also committed to supporting the future of the fishery through local conservation efforts around Sodus Point and Wayne County. He actively volunteers time helping raise young salmon in local net pen projects that contribute to maintaining healthy salmon populations in Lake Ontario for future generations. His attention to customer service extends far beyond the fishing itself, often assisting traveling guests with local lodging recommendations, nearby accommodations, and ensuring every catch is professionally cleaned, filleted, and packaged after the trip. Captain Jim encourages a hands-on fishing experience where guests actively participate by setting lines, fighting fish, and learning light-tackle trolling techniques that make Lake Ontario salmon fishing so unique and rewarding. Every guided fishing trip takes place aboard the Diamond J, a spacious and professionally equipped 37-foot Trojan International built for offshore fishing comfort and performance on Lake Ontario. With a wide 14-foot beam, the boat offers excellent stability and a smooth ride in changing Great Lakes conditions, making it ideal for families, children, and anglers who want a comfortable fishing experience. The large back deck provides plenty of fishing space during multiple hookups, while the enclosed cabin features seating, protection from the weather, and a clean private restroom for guest convenience. Equipped with advanced sonar, GPS navigation, and professional trolling equipment, the Diamond J is designed to safely reach productive offshore fishing grounds while maximizing opportunities for trophy salmon and trout fishing near Rochester, New York.

A Lifetime On The Water Guiding Unforgettable Trips

Meet Captain Jim Del Real

Captain Jim Del Real

Frequently Asked Questions for Diamond J Charters﻿What is included in a Diamond J Charters fishing trip on Lake Ontario?Every outing with Diamond J Charters is a fully equipped experience. We provide all professional-grade rods, reels, and tackle specialized for Lake Ontario salmon and trout. Your trip also includes the expertise of Captain Jim, who utilizes advanced sonar and GPS to track the best bites. Once we return to the dock at Sodus Point, we provide complimentary fish filleting and packing for your entire catch at no extra charge. What is the best time of year to fish in Sodus Point, NY?The best time depends on your target species. April is the peak for our Spring Special Brown Trout sessions along the shoreline. May through September offers the most consistent action for King Salmon, Coho, and Steelhead as they move into deeper water. For those seeking the largest trophy King Salmon, the late summer months of August and September are traditionally the most productive in the Sodus Point region. How much does a full day fishing charter cost in Sodus Point with Diamond J Charters?Our full day (8-hour) fishing charter is priced at $680 for up to three people or $750 for four people. If you have a larger group, additional guests can be added for $100 each. These rates are comprehensive, covering the boat, fuel, and all necessary equipment for a complete day of sport fishing on the New York side of Lake Ontario. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for the trip?No, you do not need to bring any personal fishing equipment. Diamond J Charters provides top-of-the-line trolling gear and light-tackle setups specifically tuned for the species we target. However, if you have a favorite lucky rod you’d like to use, you are welcome to bring it along—just let Captain Jim know so we can integrate it into our spread. Is a fishing license included in the Diamond J Charters trip price?A New York State fishing license is not included in the trip rate and must be purchased separately. You can easily buy your license online or at a local bait shop once you reach town. Please ensure every angler in your party has a valid license before we depart from the marina, as this is a requirement for fishing the New York waters of Lake Ontario. What should I bring with me on my Sodus Point fishing charter?To stay comfortable on the water, you should bring non-marking shoes with soft soles, a hat, sunglasses, suntan lotion, and rain gear just in case. Most importantly, bring a large cooler to transport your filleted catch home. We also recommend bringing any snacks or beverages you’d like to enjoy during your five or eight hours on the lake. Is cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?Yes, professional cleaning and filleting are included at no additional cost. Captain Jim or the crew will expertly fillet and pack your Salmon and Trout at the end of the trip, so they are ready for the grill or freezer. This service is a standard part of our commitment to providing a premium guided experience for our guests. Do I need a passport for a Diamond J Charters trip?A passport is not required for any of our excursions. Even though Lake Ontario borders Canada, all Diamond J Charters trips stay strictly within the New York side of the lake. We depart from and return to Sodus Point, ensuring you stay within US territory throughout your entire fishing session. How can I prevent motion sickness during my Lake Ontario trip?If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend beginning medication 24 hours before your scheduled departure. Taking the first dose the night before allows the medicine to be fully in your system by the time we leave the dock. This is the best way to ensure you spend your time focusing on the fishing rather than feeling unwell.

Sodus Bay Fishing Report on 16th May, 2026 - 3

AUTHOR

Jim Del Real

NOTES

Salmon Fishing out of Sodus Point

Sodus Bay

Light Tackle and Spoons

STATS

CATCHES

12 Total Catches

Total catches12

chinook salmon

Catch - 12

Diamond J Charters Available Trips

Navigate