Black Lake, NY Forum

I want to bring my son fishing for crappie and catfish and will be fishing out of a canoe. When is the beat time and area to go?

Good time to fish for Catfish/Bullheads would be from May and June as they are usually grouping up to spawn. Just pick out a bay with lots of weeds. As for Crappie just about any time would be good. Best time again would be in the first few months. Come July and August most fish head for deeper water and the lake has its usual turn over phase. Its more where to find them. Crappie populations have dived the last few years due to over fishing and most of them seem to be on the small size. Recommend highly to use a boat instead of a canoe as Black Lake is known for its fast approaching storms and rough weather. If you still intend to use a canoe pick a day when the lake is like a mirror. Safety should be your main concern. Here's wishing you the best of luck. Especially since you are taking your son. You are very lucky. Catch & Release!