Lake Ontario fish stocking
Carlton, Orleans County, New York
Lake Ontario in Carlton, Orleans County, New York was last stocked in May 2025 with 20,630 landlocked salmon. Across the 4 years shown here, NYSDEC released 435,081 fish in 16 separate stockings. Stockings here are most common in April and May.
2026 stocking plan
From NYSDEC's published season plan. Plans can change because of weather and hatchery conditions.
| When | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 2026 | Brown Trout | 37,100 | 8 inches |
When Lake Ontario gets fish
Stocking history
New York reports the month of each stocking, not the exact day.
2025 · 59,130 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landlocked Salmon | 20,630 | 6.5″ | |
| Brown Trout | 38,500 | 8.5″ |
2024 · 87,450 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 14,980 | 7.8″ | |
| Brown Trout | 22,470 | 7.6″ | |
| Landlocked Salmon | 40,000 | 6.3″ | |
| Landlocked Salmon | 10,000 | 7.2″ |
2023 · 155,201 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 17,500 | 7.8″ | |
| Brown Trout | 17,500 | 7.8″ | |
| Lake Trout | 41,105 | 6.5″ | |
| Lake Trout | 40,206 | 6.4″ | |
| Landlocked Salmon | 17,850 | 7″ | |
| Landlocked Salmon | 21,040 | 6.5″ |
2022 · 133,300 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 17,500 | 7.5″ | |
| Brown Trout | 17,500 | 8″ | |
| Lake Trout | 79,500 | 7″ | |
| Landlocked Salmon | 18,800 | 6.5″ |
Frequently asked questions
When was Lake Ontario last stocked?
NYSDEC records show Lake Ontario was last stocked in May 2025 (about 17 months ago), with 20,630 landlocked salmon.
What fish are stocked in Lake Ontario?
Lake Ontario has been stocked with brown trout, lake trout, and landlocked salmon in the years shown here (2022–2025).
When does Lake Ontario usually get stocked?
Most fish have been stocked in April and May. Exact dates change from year to year, so check back or see NYSDEC's official stocking page.
Do I need a license to fish Lake Ontario?
Yes, anglers generally need a valid New York fishing license. Check the current New York fishing regulations for seasons, limits and any special rules for Lake Ontario.
Other stocked waters in Orleans County
Waterport Reservoir
Johnson Creek
Oak Orchard Creek
All 4 stocked waters in Orleans County →
Source: Fish Stocking Lists (Actual) (data.ny.gov), Current Season Spring Trout Stocking (data.ny.gov). Stocked Lakes is not affiliated with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Spot a problem? Let us know.