Master the Lake Ontario fishing calendar! From spring Brown Trout to the "Silver Ghost" Steelhead and summer Kings, plan your Sodus Point trip with Diamond J.

Fishing Seasons

Lake Ontario Fishing Season: When to Catch a Legend

Expert guided lake fishing for salmon and trout at Sodus Point. Book your premium charter today.

Trout Quest

Diamond J Full Day Trout Charter Lake Ontario

Top rated Lake Ontario fishing charter from Sodus Point. Target King Salmon and Steelhead with Diamond J.

Lake Salmon Trip

Diamond J Lake Ontario Salmon Charter Sodus Point

Join Diamond J Charters for world class Lake Ontario salmon fishing from Sodus Point, NY. Book today.

Lake Ontario Trip

Diamond J Charters Lake Ontario Salmon Fishing

Expert guided Lake Ontario salmon and trout charter from Rochester. Book your September fishing trip.

September Fish

Rochester September Salmon Trout Lake Diamond J

Book your guided Lake Ontario salmon charter from Sodus Point. Target Kings, Coho & Steelhead today.

King Salmon Hunt

King Salmon Charter Sodus Point Diamond J Lake

Expert guided 5 hour Lake Ontario fishing charter targeting salmon and trout from Sodus Point.

Half Day Charter

Sodus Point Lake Trout Salmon Charter Diamond J

World class 8 hour trolling adventure targeting trophy salmon and trout. Book your guided lake charter today.

Salmon Charter

Diamond J Lake Trout Steelhead Charter Sodus Point

Everything you need to know about NY fishing licenses for Sodus Point. View 2026 fees, age rules, and resident info. Book your Diamond J Charters trip today!

Fishing License

Planning Your Sodus Point Trip? Your NY Fishing License FAQ

Explore Sodus Point, NY! Discover Chimney Bluffs, Sodus Bay Lighthouse, beaches, and local dining. Plan your Lake Ontario getaway with Diamond J Charters today.

Explore Sodus

Exploring Sodus Point: Must-Visit Landmarks and Local Eats

Learn more about Jim Del Real a Lake Ontario Salmon Charters Sodus Point in Diamond J Charters

Jim Del Real - Diamond J Charters

Lake Trout

Salmon Fishing Sodus Point 

Chinook Salmon

<p><div>Another rough day with East winds once again only one direction of a aggressive bite. I had two youngsters that did fantastic on the rods and where on their game all day. We lost some nice ones but at the end of the day we had a nice box of big fish congratulations to the team and a big thanks to Mom for coming along and being super cool. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing, Captain Jim </div></p>

<p><div>Light Tackle and 300 copper Spoons </div></p>

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

Salmon and Trout Fishing out of Sodus Point 

<p><div>We fished today in some rough water and found only one direction that they were aggressively feeding and giving us a chance to get them in. Despite the crew’s staying ultra aggressive on the rods they still managed to get away. At the end of the fay we had a very good box of nice size Spring Kings congratulations to the crew. The fishing gets better by the day. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing, Captain Jim </div><div><br></div></p>

<p><div>Light Tackle and Spoons</div></p>

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

Salmon Fishing out of Sodus Point 

<p><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></p>

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

Kings 

<p><div>Heavy storms moving the water around and temperatures but we still got some very nice fish and a good number of bites. A great group of guys who had a great time together. Looking forward to seeing them again. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing, Captain Jim </div></p>

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

Brown Trout and Kings 

Fishing for both Browns and Kings 

Brown Trout

<p><div>We started the morning going down the shore line for Browns got bites quick and it was looking good. Then the bite shit off and we moved offshore and found some nice Kings and a large Lake Trout to finish our day. The guys did a great job on the rods to give us a nice box of fish. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing , Captain Jim </div></p>

<p><div>Small and Large Spoons </div></p>

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

Sodus Point , New York 

<p><div>A fantastic day of fishing and it continues to be steady since ice out. We continue to get multiple hook ups at a time and we know we are only days away from the Kings coming in. lt would be a great time to sign up and join us for spectacular fishing experience. </div><div><br></div><div>Let’s Go Fishing, Captain Jim</div></p>

<p><div>Light tackle and spoons and stick baits</div></p>

Fishing charter catch of multiple Coho salmon laid out on boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Sodus Point, New York 

<p><div>Another great day of fishing along the beautiful shore line of Lake Ontario. The Browns and Cohos are in heavy and very active. We had number of doubles and triples throughout the day. It would be a very good time to sing up and enjoy this great fishing. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing, Captain Jim </div></p>

<p><div>Light tacke and stick baits</div></p>

Fishing catch of multiple fish laid out on boat deck at Sodus Point NY

<p><div>Great fishing along the shoreline with Browns and Cohos. We had very good number of bites and threw back a lot of them as we enjoyed double and triples at a time. </div><div>Let’s Go Fishing , Captain Jim </div></p>

<p><p><div>Light Tackle with Stick Baits </div></p></p>

Successful fishing trip at Sodus Point NY with catch of multiple fish laid out on boat deck

<p><div>The 2026 Season started with some fantastic Brown fishing in the beginning of April. The shoreline had great color and the Browns where everywhere. We had many doubles and triples throughout the day. It is great to see a family having great time. </div><div>Its a great time to sign up and join us for a great day of fishing. </div><div> Let’s Go Fishing ,<span style="font-size: 1em;">Captain Jim </span></div></p>

Successful fishing trip in Sodus Point NY with catch of Coho Salmon and Rainbow Trout displayed on boat deck

Fishing charter boat with catch of fish laid out on deck at Sodus Point NY

The current Lake Ontario fishing report for Sodus Point NY indicates a productive period for those targeting silver fish and deep-water trout. Surface temperatures are stabilizing, pushing the King Salmon into deeper thermoclines where they are actively feeding. We have seen consistent action when trolling with light-tackle setups, a signature of the Diamond J Charters experience. Our recent trips out of Sodus Bay have successfully landed a mix of Chinook, Coho, and aggressive Steelhead, with the best results occurring during our early morning 5:00 AM departures.

Current Angling Conditions and King Salmon Activity with Captain Jim Del Real

<p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p>

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Successful fishing charter displaying catch of Chinook salmon, Atlantic salmon, and brown trout on boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing charter displaying mixed bag of salmon and trout species caught at Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing trip at Sodus Point NY showing catch of rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon on boat deck

Three people fishing from the deck of a charter boat in Sodus Point NY waters

Atlantic salmon caught while fishing on Lake Ontario at Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing trip at Sodus Point NY with catch of Chinook Salmon, Brown Trout, Atlantic Salmon, and Rainbow Trout displayed on boat deck

Successful salmon fishing trip in Sodus Point NY with multiple Chinook and Coho salmon laid out on boat deck

Successful fishing trip showing six caught fish including Brown Trout and Atlantic Salmon on boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Brown trout and Atlantic salmon fishing catch displayed on boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Chinook salmon fishing charter catch displayed on boat deck in Sodus Point NY

Coho and Chinook salmon catch on fishing boat at Sodus Point NY

Five people on fishing boat deck with catch of Chinook Salmon, Atlantic Salmon, and Brown Trout at Sodus Point NY

Fresh caught Atlantic salmon and brown trout displayed on fishing boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Chinook salmon catch displayed on fishing boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Successful fishing trip with multiple Chinook salmon caught on boat deck at Sodus Point NY

Lake Ontario gets a lot of attention for its salmon fishery, and these includes chinook salmon, coho salmon, even Atlantic salmon draw serious crowds.

Steelhead and Lake Trout Fishing on Lake Ontario 

Lake Ontario is home to one of the most exciting freshwater salmon fisheries in North America. Every year, anglers travel to this Great Lake searching

Lake Ontario Salmon Fishing Guide: Chinook vs Coho Salmon Explained

Lake Ontario is one of the best places in North America for brown trout fishing. While many anglers visit this Great Lake for salmon fishing, experien

Lake Ontario Brown Trout Fishing Guide

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p>

A Lifetime On The Water Guiding Unforgettable Trips

Meet Captain Jim Del Real

Learn the best times, baits, and locations for Lake Ontario brown trout fishing. Discover tips for catching bigger trout throughout the season.

Learn the differences between Chinook and Coho salmon, best seasons, fishing techniques, and tips for successful Lake Ontario salmon fishing.

Learn where to find steelhead and lake trout on Lake Ontario, best seasons, trolling tips, gear, and the lures that catch more fish.

Captain Jim Del Real

<p><strong><em>Frequently Asked Questions for Diamond J Charters</em></strong></p><p><strong><span class="ql-cursor">﻿</span></strong></p><p><strong>What is included in a Diamond J Charters fishing trip on Lake Ontario?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>What is the best time of year to fish in Sodus Point, NY?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>How much does a full day fishing charter cost in Sodus Point with Diamond J Charters?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for the trip?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Is a fishing license included in the Diamond J Charters trip price?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>What should I bring with me on my Sodus Point fishing charter?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Is cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Do I need a passport for a Diamond J Charters trip?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>How can I prevent motion sickness during my Lake Ontario trip?</strong></p><p>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.</p>

Top Sodus Point fishing hotspots on Lake Ontario's NY side.

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

<p>Our half day, five-hour trips depart from Sodus Point, New York, focusing on the productive waters of Lake Ontario. This guided trip is designed for all skill levels, targeting King Salmon, Coho, Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and various trout species. The base rate covers two guests, with all professional rods, reels, and tackle provided. We offer complimentary filleting and packing of your catch at the end of the session. Anglers must bring a valid New York State fishing license, a large cooler, and appropriate weather gear, including soft-soled shoes. Motion sickness medication is recommended 24 hours in advance. Join us for a focused morning or afternoon on the water.</p>

Coho Salmon

Steelhead Trout

Diamond J

5 hrs 

Half Day Lake Ontario King Salmon Fishing Charter for Two People

<p>This full day guided trip offers eight hours of trolling on the New York side of Lake Ontario, departing from Sodus Point. Designed specifically for a group of two anglers, the session targets trophy King Salmon, Coho, Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and Brown Trout. All professional tackle and gear are included in the rate, along with complimentary fish filleting and packing services. Participants must provide a valid New York State fishing license. Required items include a large cooler, non-marking soft-soled shoes, and sun protection. For the best experience, begin motion sickness medication 24 hours prior to departure. This comprehensive outing is suitable for both novice and seasoned anglers.</p>

8 hrs 

Lake Ontario Salmon and Trout Fishing Charter for Two People, Sodus Point

<p>This five-hour half day trip provides an efficient way to fish the New York waters of Lake Ontario, departing directly from Sodus Point. Accommodating a group of three people, the outing focuses on targeting King Salmon, Coho, Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and Brown Trout. All professional rods, reels, and tackle are provided, and your catch will be filleted and packed at no additional cost. Guests are responsible for purchasing a New York State fishing license prior to the trip. Essential items to bring include soft-soled shoes, sun protection, and a large cooler. To ensure comfort on the water, it is recommended to start motion sickness medication 24 hours before your scheduled departure.</p>

Half Day Lake Ontario Salmon and Trout Fishing Charter for Three People, Sodus Point

<p>This full day guided trip offers eight hours of trolling on the New York side of Lake Ontario, departing from Sodus Point. Designed for a group of three people, the session targets trophy King Salmon, Coho, Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and Brown Trout. All professional tackle and gear are included in the rate, along with complimentary fish filleting and packing services. Participants must provide a valid New York State fishing license. Required items include a large cooler, non-marking soft-soled shoes, and sun protection. For the best experience, begin motion sickness medication 24 hours prior to departure. This comprehensive outing is suitable for both novice and seasoned anglers.</p>

Full Day Lake Ontario Salmon and Trout Fishing Charter for Three People, Sodus Point

<p>This Lake Ontario guided trip departs from Sodus Point and offers flexible durations of five or eight hours to suit your schedule. Designed for a group of four people, with the option to add additional guests, the charter targets King Salmon, Coho, Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and Brown Trout. The rate includes all professional-grade rods, reels, and tackle, along with complimentary fish filleting and packing. Anglers must provide a valid New York State fishing license. Required gear includes non-marking soft-soled shoes, sun protection, and a large cooler for your catch. For the best experience on the water, starting motion sickness medication 24 hours prior to departure is recommended. This service is appropriate for all skill levels and emphasizes a professional, sport-fishing approach.</p>

Lake Ontario Salmon and Trout Fishing Charter for Four People, Sodus Point

Full Day Salmon and Trout Trolling Fishing Trip for Four People  - Sodus Point 

<p>This Lake Ontario guided trip departs from Rochester and offers flexible durations of five or eight hours to suit your schedule. Designed for a group of four people, with the option to add additional guests, the charter targets King Salmon, Coho, Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead, and Brown Trout. The rate includes all professional-grade rods, reels, and tackle, along with complimentary fish filleting and packing. Anglers must provide a valid New York State fishing license. Required gear includes non-marking soft-soled shoes, sun protection, and a large cooler for your catch. For the best experience on the water, starting motion sickness medication 24 hours prior to departure is recommended. This service is appropriate for all skill levels and emphasizes a professional, sport-fishing approach.</p>

Meet your Captain Jim Del Real

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