Port suggestion please

[Tom Mich]

I'm primarily an Erie guy but planning a trip for browns April 10-13. I've fished out of Wilson and Olcott previously for salmon, but springtime browns are a bucket list trip for me. I have the dates and flexibility to fish most any port, but am seeking suggestions from those more experienced than me. I'm sure there are browns literally everywhere, but just inquiring as to whether one area is superior to others. I'll be in a Yarcraft 219TFX so being mobile on the water isn't a concer. Thanks in advance. 

[Chicong]

I don't think it matters.  Here in Rochester, we regulaly deal with the off color plumes from the Genny.  It is something that has to be considered for spring fishing.  Maybe it is an advantage for some. But for me it can get confusing what to use and whereto fish.  Perhaps go to where is closest to you, has a good launch, and good places to stay and eat.  Also places where you can fish a river or bay if it gets rough.  Hope you do well.      

[13owhunter]

Launching out of Irondequoit bay would be a good idea.  Good food right there and nice launch in early season, trolling shallow in front of Webster park is usually great this time of year and the bay for plan B if it gets rough.  Its also a few miles from the Genny so an easy boat ride if there's not good water color to the East.

[pike44]

  On 4/1/2025 at 6:39 PM, 13owhunter said:

Launching out of Irondequoit bay would be a good idea.  Good food right there and nice launch in early season, trolling shallow in front of Webster park is usually great this time of year and the bay for plan B if it gets rough.  Its also a few miles from the Genny so an easy boat ride if there's not good water color to the East.

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[pike44]

I was told many launches don't have enough water to launch a 28' boat. Does Irondequoit  have sufficient water? Trying to find out before driving 5 hrs to fish,  Thanks

[lumberjohn]

Fairhaven can handle a 28 footer easily. I'll be up at Sodus Saturday and will be posting a report.

[pike44]

Thanks. I called a few places that said with the low water I would run off the end of the launch before the trailer was in far enough to launch. 

[GAMBLER]

The Rochester Basin is the best area on the lake for consistent colored water.  You could launch at the Genesee River or Ibay.  IF the Genny is running hard, the mud plume can be miles long along the shoreline.  

[LongLine]

I-bay is a fairly shallow launch.  That big of a boat may be very problematic there.  The genny is a deep water launch & I've seen larger boats launch there without a problem.

[Sk8man]

If specifically targeting browns my choice would be either Fairhaven or Sodus Point as some of the best brown fishing in Spring may be found there from Pultneyville to east of Fairhaven is usually very good for browns early on in the season.

Edited Wednesday at 03:55 PM by Sk8man

[Chicong]

I agree with LongLine.  The Port of Rochester launch is very big.  I think I have seen them launching Coast Guard vessels there.  The launch at Irondequoit Bay is pretty short and narrow.   I would launch at the Port and you can still access the bay with e 5-10 minute cruise over there.  

[pike44]

Is the port of Rochester launch at the marina? Thanks

[LongLine]

Yes.  At the south end.  Use one of the middle ramps.