Situated in Onondaga, Cortland, and Cayuga counties, Skaneateles Lake stands as the fifth-largest member of the illustrious Finger Lakes, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and serene waters. The name "Skaneateles" itself pays homage to the Iroquois language, signifying "long lake," a fitting description for this picturesque water body. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, Skaneateles Lake takes pride in its status as one of the cleanest Finger Lakes, with local communities sourcing their drinking water directly from its pristine depths. At an elevation of 863 feet, Skaneateles Lake covers a substantial area of 8,960 acres, embracing its distinction as one of the largest among its Finger Lakes counterparts. The shoreline, stretching over 34 miles, offers a diverse landscape, from scenic coves to sweeping vistas. Skaneateles Lake measures an impressive 16 miles in length and boasts a maximum width of 1.5 miles. While it beckons with its inviting surface, its mysteries extend below to a maximum depth of 300 feet, with an average depth of 145 feet. The thermocline, a distinct layer with temperature variation, begins at approximately 35 feet below the water's surface. Skaneateles Lake spans across Onondaga, Cortland, and Cayuga counties, with charming towns such as Niles, Scott, Sempronius, Skaneateles, and Spafford gracing its shores. As one of the cleaner Finger Lakes, Skaneateles Lake boasts limited weed growth. The southern end features some weed formations, with a smaller presence found in the northern reaches. The relative absence of aquatic vegetation contributes to the lake's unparalleled clarity and water quality. To ensure convenient access to the pristine waters of Skaneateles Lake, multiple launch sites are thoughtfully provided: Onondaga County: A DEC launch site, located two miles south of the village of Skaneateles on the west shore along Route 41 A, features a concrete ramp and parking for 30 cars and trailers. Skaneateles Park in the Village of Skaneateles offers shore access for visitors. Cortland County: The Andrew R. Fuller Park in the Town of Scott stands ready to welcome visitors seeking to explore the lake's natural wonders. Skaneateles Lake harbors a diverse array of fish species, offering ample opportunities for anglers to engage with its thriving ecosystem. Lake trout, rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon (also known as landlocked salmon), smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, chain pickerel, cisco, bluegill, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, rock bass, black crappie, white sucker, and brown bullhead populate the lake, creating a dynamic and engaging fishing experience. For fishing enthusiasts, Skaneateles Lake provides a range of opportunities. Smallmouth bass fishing remains exceptional throughout the lake, making it a hotspot for anglers. The south end is particularly well-regarded for its bullhead, panfish, and pickerel fishing. Lake trout fishing is excellent, though these fish tend to be smaller in size compared to those found in other Finger Lakes. The lake also offers a chance to reel in rainbow trout and Atlantic salmon via trolling during the spring and fall. Local anglers prefer marshmallow and worm rigs for their success. In addition, fall and winter promise excellent rainbow trout shore fishing, while ice fishing enthusiasts can look forward to targeting lake trout and yellow perch. For the latest fishing information, a dedicated fishing hotline is available at the Central New York Fishing Hotline or by calling (607) 753-1551. As Skaneateles Lake continues to enchant visitors with its remarkable clarity and recreational opportunities, it remains a testament to the pristine beauty of the Finger Lakes region.