City of Albany, New York

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: Weed edges and drop-offs in Rensselaer Lake, Burden Lake, and the Hudson River backwaters near Menands; shallower than summer.

  Early fall bass move to 2–4 m (6–12 ft) depths. Use 7–10 cm (3–4 in) soft plastics or topwater at dawn; cooler water triggers feeding. Weed lines are prime.

  Caution: Check current DEC regulations for size and bag limits before you fish.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: Rocky shorelines and current breaks in the Hudson River main channel; also Rensselaer Lake structure.

  Smallmouths are active in 18°C (64°F) water. Cast crankbaits or crawfish-pattern soft plastics to rocks and ledges. Early morning and late afternoon are best.

  Caution: Verify current DEC regulations for this species and water.

• Chain Pickerel

  Where: Shallow, weedy ponds and backwater areas: Rensselaer Lake, Burden Lake, and Hudson River oxbows.

  Pickerel are aggressive in fall. Use 10–13 cm (4–5 in) shiners or small spoons; retrieve steadily through weed beds. They tolerate cooler water well.

  Caution: Pickerel have sharp teeth; use a wire bite leader or heavy mono.

• Yellow Perch

  Where: Deeper holes and channels in the Hudson River and larger ponds; 3–6 m (10–20 ft) in early fall.

  Perch school heavily in September. Drop small jigs (1/8–1/4 oz) tipped with live minnows or waxworms vertically. Work structure slowly.

  Caution: Check DEC regulations for size and possession limits.

• Walleye

  Where: Hudson River main channel and deeper pools; nocturnal in warm water, more active at dawn/dusk as temps drop.

  September walleye feed on shiners and crawfish. Fish live shiners 2–4 m (6–12 ft) deep at dawn, or use crankbaits and soft plastics near structure at dusk.

  Caution: Walleye are regulated; confirm DEC season dates and limits before fishing.