DeRuyter Reservoir
DeRuyter Reservoir is a highly developed lake located on the border of Madison and Onondaga counties near the Town of DeRuyter. It is one of the numerous area reservoirs that was built to supply water to the Erie Canal.
Physical Features
Elevation: 1,300 feet
Area: 575 acres
Length: 1.8 miles
Maximum Depth: 55 feet
Plant Life
Abundant vegetation on the shallower south end and also along most of the shoreline out to about 12 feet of water.
Public Access Sites
Fee access boat launch at DeRuyter Lake General Store, 37 South Lake Road. For more information on this launch site contact the DeRuyter Lake General Store at 315-852-9678 or view their website which can be found using search engine.
General Fishing Information
Walleye, chain pickerel, largemouth and smallmouth bass are the main gamefish found in the reservoir. Bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, black crappie, yellow perch, rock bass and brown bullhead are also found in the reservoir. Walleye can often be tricky to locate, but some good starting points would be the 20 foot contour around the island and point in the middle section of the lake. Try deep diving crankbaits, jigs or worm harnesses. Largemouth bass can be found around the vegetation while smallmouth bass are more often caught in the northern deeper portion.With the numerous chain pickerel in the lake, using a wire leader is advised if fishing around vegetation. The reservoir is also a popular ice fishing location for walleye, chain pickerel and panfish.
Fisheries Management
DeRuyter Reservoir is stocked annually with approximately 2,880,000 walleye fry. Statewide Angling Regulations apply.
