Dry Creek Charters was born from a lifelong passion for the water and a dedication to sharing the thrill of the catch with others. After years of successful outings with friends and family, Captain Christopher transitioned from a dedicated hobbyist to a professional, licensed guide. As a first-generation captain, he brings a fresh perspective and an unmatched drive to every excursion. When you book a Lake Ontario fishing charter with us, you aren't just a customer; you are part of a curated angling experience designed to land trophy fish. Our trips focus on the diverse and hard-fighting species that make these waters world-famous. Depending on the time of year, guests have the opportunity to hook into Chinook, Atlantic, and Coho Salmon, as well as Brown Trout, Lake Trout, and Steelhead. To maximize your success, we primarily utilize professional trolling techniques. This specialized Lake Ontario salmon and trout fishing charter is tailored to put you exactly where the action is, ensuring that every moment on the water is productive and exciting. Unlike larger "head boats" that crowd as many people as possible onto a deck, Dry Creek Charters prioritizes quality over quantity. We strictly limit our trips to four guests to ensure an intimate, hands-on environment where everyone gets ample time at the rod. Our 28' Sport-Craft vessel is fully equipped with high-end downriggers, rods, reels, and lures. For your comfort, the boat also features an on-board toilet, making it an ideal choice for families and groups seeking a private, professional atmosphere. We believe the next generation of anglers should start early, which is why kids are always welcome on our boat! To ensure a smooth day on the water, we recommend bringing sunglasses, sunscreen (non-spray), and plenty of snacks to keep energy levels high. While we provide all the necessary fishing gear, guests are responsible for obtaining a local fishing license prior to departure. Beyond the Great Lakes, Captain Christopher offers specialized seasonal trips at Harvey’s Lake, the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania. From April through October, you can join us in PA to target Brown Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and Walleye using both trolling and drifting techniques. Whether you are looking for a premier Lake Ontario salmon and trout fishing charter or a quiet morning on a Pennsylvania lake, Dry Creek Charters provides the expertise and equipment needed for an unforgettable day on the water.

With the New Year officially underway, the waters of Lake Ontario are providing some of the most rewarding—and peaceful—fishing of the season. While many anglers have packed away their gear for the winter, those heading out with Dry Creek Charters are finding a consistent bite. The lower lake temperatures have brought trophy-sized Steelhead and Lake Trout into more predictable patterns, making this an ideal time for a professional Lake Ontario salmon and trout fishing charter.

Our recent trips have focused on deep-water trolling where the temperatures remain stable. We are seeing impressive numbers of "silver" fish, with Steelhead putting up their signature acrobatic fights despite the chilly air. Lake Trout are also active near the bottom structure, offering great opportunities for guests to land heavy, hard-pulling fish. The 23' Sport-Craft is running daily, providing a stable and comfortable platform for our small, intimate groups.

As we move through January, we recommend dressing in layers and bringing your polarized sunglasses to handle the winter glare. Whether you are looking for a 4-hour "quick hit" or a full 8-hour day to maximize your catch, the winter season offers a unique, crowd-free experience on the Great Lakes.

Steelhead and Lake Trout Lead the Cold Weather Action

EPSG:4269

Coho salmon caught while fishing in Wolcott

Two Chinook Salmon being caught while fishing in NY

Chinook Salmon caught while fishing in NY

Fisherman holding fishing pole near sign for Wolcott

Chinook Salmon caught while fishing in Wolcott

Scenic view of Wolcott, a beautiful fishing location

Don’t let the trophy of a lifetime swim away—claim your spot on the boat with Dry Creek Charters and experience the heart-pounding thrill of a Lake Ontario or Harvey's Lake adventure today. Ignite your passion for the water and create unforgettable memories by booking your professional guided trip now!

Our Lake Ontario salmon fishing charter offers guided salmon fishing trips led by an experienced Lake Ontario fishing guide. Specializing in high-action excursions for Chinook Salmon, Steelhead, and trophy Brown Trout, Captain Christopher Denmon leverages years of local expertise to put you exactly where the fish are biting. Whether you are chasing the legendary "King Salmon" run in Sodus Bay or seeking a light-tackle adventure on the calm waters of Harvey's Lake, PA, our trips are designed for maximum success. We provide all the high-end trolling gear and tackle necessary to land a wall-hanger, ensuring that your only focus is the fight on the other end of the line. Our family-friendly fishing charters prioritize a personalized and safe environment, making them perfect for both seasoned "weekend warriors" and young anglers landing their very first fish. Unlike large-capacity boats, we keep our groups small and intimate to provide a hands-on, educational experience that builds confidence and lasting memories. With affordable rates, expert local knowledge, and a commitment to guest satisfaction, there has never been a better time to get out on the water. Book your trip today to secure your preferred date during the peak salmon and trout season and start your journey toward a trophy catch with a guide you can trust.

Find the answers to your most common Lake Ontario and Harvey's Lake fishing charter questions, from seasonal species and licensing requirements to what to bring, ensuring your guided trip is perfectly planned and stress-free.

Captain Christopher Denmon is a first-generation guide whose path to the helm was paved by a lifelong obsession with the water. Long before obtaining a professional captain’s license, Christopher was the go-to resource for friends and family, consistently leading them to the high-value species that now define his professional charters. This transition from passionate angler to expert guide was driven by a simple realization: the techniques he mastered to find trophy fish were skills that people truly valued. Today, he brings that same authentic enthusiasm to every trip, operating with the mindset that every guest deserves the same level of dedication he gave his own inner circle for decades. What sets Christopher apart is his focus on the progression and education of his guests. One of his most rewarding milestones as a guide wasn't just a single trophy catch, but witnessing a young, initially skeptical angler evolve into a skilled sportsman. After landing a 30-inch lake trout, the young man transitioned from a novice to a selective angler, mastering the art of setting up trolling gear under Christopher’s patient mentorship. This commitment to an intimate, personal experience is why Christopher limits his Lake Ontario excursions to just four passengers. By avoiding the overcrowded "cattle boat" approach of larger charters, he ensures that every person on board receives one-on-one attention and a genuine connection to the local ecosystem. Now based in Sodus Bay, Christopher has found a home in one of Lake Ontario's most reliable fisheries. He chose this specific region because the bay maintains steadier water temperatures year-round than many other ports, providing a consistent environment for the massive Chinook salmon and trout his clients pursue. His expertise extends south to Harvey’s Lake, Pennsylvania, where he offers a different but equally rewarding pace, targeting brown trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye. Whether navigating the vast waters of the Great Lakes or the deep thermal layers of Harvey’s Lake, Christopher’s goal is to provide a transparent, knowledgeable, and friendly atmosphere where guests feel like partners in the hunt for the next big strike.<h3>The Dry Creek Charters Fleet</h3>For our Lake Ontario expeditions, guests step aboard a 23' Sport-Craft vessel, a boat engineered for stability and professional-grade performance. This vessel is fully outfitted with high-end downriggers and a complete suite of premium rods, reels, and lures specifically tuned for Great Lakes salmon and trout. Understanding that comfort is key to a successful day on the water, the boat features an on-board toilet, making it an excellent choice for families and groups who appreciate a private, professional setting. For those exploring Harvey’s Lake, we utilize a 19' Sea Nymph. Powered by a reliable Johnson outboard with a 24-knot cruise speed, the Sea Nymph offers a stable and nimble platform perfect for the precision trolling and drifting required to land Pennsylvania’s most elusive freshwater species.

Expert Guidance and Professional Gear for Lake Ontario and Harvey’s Lake Fishing Adventures

Common Questions How much does a Lake Ontario or Harvey's Lake fishing charter cost?Our pricing is designed to be transparent and flexible based on the duration of your trip. We offer 4-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour excursions to fit your schedule and budget. Lake Ontario salmon trips typically range from $125 to $200 per person depending on the group size and trip length, while our Harvey’s Lake PA guided trips are moderately priced for more intimate groups. Please visit our Rates page for the most up-to-date pricing and deposit information.What is the best time to go fishing on Lake Ontario and Harvey's Lake?Timing is everything when it comes to trophy fish! For Lake Ontario, the peak season for Chinook (King) Salmon and Steelhead is July through September. If you are targeting Brown Trout or Walleye on Harvey's Lake, the best action occurs in the spring (April–June) and again in the fall. We track real-time water temperatures and baitfish patterns year-round to ensure your trip is scheduled during the most productive windows.What should I bring on my fishing trip with Dry Creek Charters?To ensure a comfortable day on the water, we recommend bringing layers of clothing (it is often 10-15 degrees cooler on the lake), polarized sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. You should also pack a small cooler with your favorite snacks and beverages (please avoid glass containers). Most importantly, bring a valid fishing license for the state you are fishing in (NY for Lake Ontario or PA for Harvey's Lake) and a large cooler to leave in your vehicle to transport your catch home.Do I need a fishing license, and where can I get one?Yes, all anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid fishing license. For our Lake Ontario charters, you will need a New York State fishing license, which can be purchased online via the NYSDEC website. For our Harvey's Lake PA trips, a Pennsylvania fishing license with a trout/salmon permit is required. We recommend purchasing these at least 24 hours in advance to avoid any delays at the dock.Is the fishing charter family-friendly and safe for kids?Absolutely! Dry Creek Charters is proud to be a family-friendly fishing service. Captain Christopher has years of experience teaching young anglers the ropes, from watching rod tips to landing their first "big one." Our 23' Sport-Craft is a stable platform equipped with an on-board toilet and all necessary Coast Guard-approved safety gear. We suggest that children under 80 lbs bring their own comfortable, well-fitting life vest to ensure they stay safe while having fun.What is included in the price of my guided fishing trip?We provide everything you need for a world-class angling experience. This includes use of our 23' Sport-Craft (Lake Ontario) or 19' Sea Nymph (Harvey's Lake), all high-end rods and reels, specialized trolling equipment, lures, and bait. Captain Christopher also provides professional fish cleaning and filleting at the end of the trip, so your catch is ready for the grill as soon as you get home.What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my charter?Your safety is our absolute priority. Captain Christopher monitors weather and lake conditions right up until departure. If conditions are deemed unsafe due to high winds or lightning, we will work with you to reschedule your trip to the next available date. If rescheduling is not possible, your deposit will be fully refunded. Please note that we do fish in light rain, so high-quality rain gear is always a good item to have in your bag.Can we keep the fish we catch?Yes! You are more than welcome to keep any fish that meet the legal size and limit requirements set by New York or Pennsylvania state regulations. Many of our guests love taking home fresh Salmon, Trout, and Walleye. If you prefer to practice catch-and-release, especially with trophy-sized fish, we are happy to assist with a quick photo before safely returning the fish to the water to fight another day.

Lake Ontario - Monroe, NY Fishing Report on 7th Jan, 2026

AUTHOR

Christopher Denmon

NOTES

Steelhead and Lake Trout Lead the Cold Weather Action

Lake Ontario - Monroe, NY

Dry Creek Charters Available Trips

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