Schroon Lake
This giant lake has plenty of room for every recreational wish. Amenities and supplies are in the town of Schroon Lake, with its stores and marina.
Getting there
There are three main launches on the western side of the lake. All are not far from, or directly off, Route 9.
By the numbers
- Elevation: 807 feet
- Area: 4,107 acres
- Length: ~ 9 miles
- Shoreline Length: 23.7 miles
- Max Depth: 152 feet
- Mean Depth: 56 feet
Paddling
Lovely and tranquil, the waters of Schroon Lake have been attracting canoeists and kayakers for many years. Explore the shoreline with its abundant wildlife. Schroon Lake is large and shared with motorboats so be prepared for larger waves if you are away from the shoreline. There are three boat launches on the western side.
Boating
There are three boat launches on the western side. No motor restrictions. Schroon Lake does have, however, non-native invasive species, so boaters should take care to clean, drain, and dry watercraft.
Fishing
Species found here include: lake trout, landlocked salmon, large mouth bass, yellow perch, and others
Ice fishing
Schroon Lake stays busy in winter too, with all the ice fishing that goes on. Every March there's the annual Fishing Derby, first Saturday of the month.
Ice fishing special regulations are for Schroon Lake, and Schroon River from Schroon Lake downstream to Starbuckville Dam.
Trout: all year, any size, limit 5
Lake trout: all year, at least 18" limit 2 Landlocked salmon: all year, at least 15" limit 3
Putnam Pond and North Pond
Several trails can be accessed from the shore of the ponds including Treadway Mountain, which is a wonderful hike with outstanding views.
Getting there
From the intersection of Route 9 and Route 74 near Schroon Lake follow Route 74 toward Ticonderoga. Continue to Putts Pond Road on the right (entrance road for Putnam Pond State Campground). Drive this to the end to access the campground and the pond. A day use fee will be required.
Paddling
These two ponds are connected by a set of narrows. The best launch is located near the beach which is just over a small hill from the main parking area in the campground and there is a motorboat launch which can be used.
- Pond sizes – Approximate Shoreline Length: Putnam Pond: 3.75 miles; North Pond: 2.5 miles
- Type of launch: Sand and grass
- Portage/Carry Details: Less than 100 feet, no portage to North Pond
- Type of water: Both ponds are well sheltered and calm
Boating
Putnam Pond is accessible to motorboats. There is a narrow hard ramp located in the DEC campground.
Fishing and ice fishing
Fish for northern pike, largemouth bass, black crappie, brown bullhead, pumpkinseed and yellow perch on this tranquil pond. Popular with ice anglers. The northern section is at its best for fishing in the winter and early spring.