What You'll Find at Prendergast Point

Prendergast Point is a small, rocky peninsula on the north shore of Chautauqua Lake that holds smallmouth bass and walleye year-round. The point itself juts into deeper water, creating a natural break where fish stage before moving to shallow flats. The rocky structure around the base holds crawfish and baitfish, which is why smallmouth congregate here in spring and fall. Walleye use the deeper water on the far side as a transition zone between the shallows and the main lake basin.

The spot works best from late April through June and again from September through October, when water temperatures sit in the 50s to low 60s. Summer fishing is possible but slower—fish move deeper and spread out. Winter access depends on ice thickness and local conditions; check with the Chautauqua Lake Association or local bait shops before heading out.

Key Takeaways

  • Prendergast Point holds smallmouth bass and walleye around rocky structure on the north shore of Chautauqua Lake.
  • Spring and fall are most productive, when water temperatures favor active feeding near the point's shallow and deep edges.
  • Access is from the public boat launch at Mayville, about three miles south; the point is clearly visible from the water.
  • Fish the rocky base in 8 to 15 feet of water with crawfish-pattern crankbaits, soft plastics, or live shiners for walleye.

How to Reach Prendergast Point

Launch from the Mayville Public Boat Launch on the south shore of Chautauqua Lake. The launch is on Route 20 in the village of Mayville, New York, and has parking, a paved ramp, and a small fee (typically a few dollars per day). From the launch, head north across the lake toward the north shore; Prendergast Point is roughly three miles away and sits between the towns of Bemus Point and Dewittville.

The point is easy to spot—it's a rocky outcrop that extends into the lake with a small wooded area behind it. There is no public dock or landing on the point itself, so you'll fish from your boat. The water around the point is open to public fishing, and there are no private property concerns as long as you stay in the water.

Seasonal Patterns and What to Fish

In spring (late April through May), smallmouth move shallow to spawn and feed aggressively. Fish the rocky base in 6 to 12 feet of water with 1/4-ounce jigs tipped with crawfish, or throw 3- to 4-inch soft plastics in brown and green patterns. Walleye are also active in spring; they'll hit live shiners or shad under a slip bobber in 12 to 18 feet of water just off the point's deep side.

Summer (June through August) is slower. Fish move deeper and more scattered. Early morning and evening produce better results than midday. Focus on the deeper water (18 to 25 feet) on the far side of the point with live bait or jigging presentations.

Fall (September through October) mirrors spring. Smallmouth return to the shallows to feed before winter, and walleye stage around the point as they move between feeding and deeper holding areas. This is often the most consistent time to fish here. Use the same spring tactics—jigs, soft plastics, and live bait—but fish slightly deeper (10 to 18 feet) as water cools.

Tackle and Bait That Works

For smallmouth, bring 1/4- to 3/8-ounce jigs in brown, green, and black, tipped with live crawfish or 3- to 4-inch soft plastics. A 6- to 7-foot medium-power spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound braided line gives you sensitivity and control around rocks. Crankbaits that mimic crawfish (Rapala Shad Rap, Strike King Crankbait) also work well in spring and fall.

For walleye, live shiners or small shad (3 to 4 inches) under a slip bobber or on a jig head are most effective. A 6.5- to 7-foot medium spinning rod with 8-pound monofilament or 6-pound braid works well. If you're jigging, use 1/4- to 1/2-ounce jigs with live bait or soft plastics in white, chartreuse, or natural colors.

What to Know Before You Go

Chautauqua Lake has a 10 horsepower motor limit on most of the lake, so plan for a slower cruise from the launch. The lake can get choppy on windy days, especially on the north shore where Prendergast Point sits exposed. Check the forecast and be prepared to fish closer to shore or return to the launch if conditions deteriorate.

The point itself has rocks and shallow water near shore, so approach carefully and watch your depth finder. Most productive fishing happens in 8 to 20 feet of water, where you can hold position without running aground. A GPS or map app on your phone helps you return to the same spot on future trips.

Chautauqua Lake requires a New York State fishing license. You can purchase one online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website or at local bait and tackle shops in Mayville or nearby towns.

Local Resources and Conditions

The Chautauqua Lake Association maintains information about water conditions, fish stocking, and seasonal patterns. Local bait shops in Mayville and Bemus Point carry live bait, tackle, and current reports on what's biting. Stop in before you launch—the staff can tell you what's been working that week and whether walleye or smallmouth are more active.

Chautauqua Lake is stocked with walleye by New York State, typically in spring and fall. The lake also has a natural smallmouth population that reproduces well. Both species are healthy, and the lake supports a solid recreational fishery year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day to fish Prendergast Point?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon through dusk are most productive. Smallmouth and walleye feed actively during low-light periods. Midday fishing is possible but slower, especially in summer.

Can I fish Prendergast Point in winter?

Yes, if ice conditions are safe. Check with local bait shops or the Chautauqua Lake Association before heading out. Ice thickness varies year to year, and the point's exposed location means ice may be thinner there than in protected bays. Winter jigging for walleye can be excellent if conditions allow.

How deep is the water around Prendergast Point?

Water depth ranges from 6 to 8 feet near the rocky base to 20 to 25 feet on the far side of the point. The drop-off is gradual, so you can fish multiple depths without moving far.

Do I need a boat to fish Prendergast Point?

Yes. There is no shore access or public landing on the point itself. You'll need to launch from Mayville and fish from your boat. A small jon boat or kayak works fine for this spot.

What size fish can I expect to catch here?

Smallmouth typically run 12 to 16 inches, with occasional fish in the 18-inch range. Walleye average 14 to 18 inches, with some larger fish present. The lake doesn't produce trophy-sized fish regularly, but consistent action is common in spring and fall.