Frequently asked questions.

  • The best time to catch a Trophy Northern Pike is the spring and fall time. The post-spawn bite from May 1st (opening day of Pike season) until Mid-June and again from Mid-September until Mid-November is when some of our biggest Pike get caught. Absolute peak prime-time dates are from May 25th-June 20th and September 25th-November 7th. We do not offer trophy Pike trips on Sacandaga during the Summer months of July & August as water temperatures become to warm to ethically catch them.

  • Except for the first two weeks in May, there is no specific time when Pike fishing is better during the day. All other times of year however, Pike feeding is 100% dependent on weather and barometric pressure changes. Throughout the year, we have caught big Pike in the early morning, mid-morning, afternoon and evening.

  • Absolutely! Specifically for younger children, elderly folk and those just looking for a relaxing day on the water, our multi-species for walleye, bass, perch and rock bass are a perfect fit. We typically vertically jig with live bait or cast with small artificial lures making for an exciting, easy day on the water.

  • Absolutely Not! While baitcasting rods and reels give you significant advantage with casting distance, accuracy, stress off wrists etc. we always have plenty of spinning rods and reels ready for use. Our baitcasting reels are backlash free however!

  • This is covered in the Guided Trips Section of the Website but below is a summary for the open water.

    All tackle including, rods, reels, lures, & life jackets are included. Feel free however to bring your favorite rod or lucky lure!

    A pair of polarized sunglasses and a hat are highly recommended

    Rain Suit if rain is remotely forecasted.

    A valid NYS Fishing License.

    Payment can be made in the form of Venmo, Paypal, Zelle, CashApp, Cash or Check

  • While you are more than welcome to bring you own gear, it is essential to have the right set ups, line weight and leader selection. We are not liable if one of your rods you brought is lost or broken. See the next questions for all recommended tackle.

  • For line, we prefer 65lb test or greater braided line. KastKing Superpower 60lb test is excellent, affordable line. Use code CHAKBA10 for 10% off all Kastking orders.

    We prefer a 100lb test Fluorocarbon pre-made leader. If you go into the AGS shop we make our own custom leaders.

    We recommend using a medium heavy or heavy action rod (greater than 7ft long). A 300 size baitcasting reel or 3000 or 4000 sized spinning reel is best. For lures we recommend browsing our lures on the AGS Shop section.

  • Our new booking software allows you to pay your deposits and final payment right online with a credit or debit card. While we do accept cash or check, paying your invoice online or using Venmo is preferred.

  • We require a $200 deposit once you book the trip to lock the date in. Final Payment is due at completion of trip.

  • While the deposit is 50% refundable up to 7 days prior to the trip, we are happy to transfer it in full to another day if cancellation is needed. Exceptions to the 50% refundable policy are if the captain deems the weather conditions unsafe (Lightning greater than 50% chance forecasted), High Winds (30+ MPH). Booking and credit card fees are NON-REFUNDABLE.

  • While a tip is never required, it is always appreciated, specifically when the captain goes overtime to get a big fish and when a big fish is caught. Tips range from $50-200 or 15%-20% of the trip. Tips are used toward gas, tackle, insurances, maintenance on boat, trailer and truck, website and marina fees to name a few expenses. Tips do not have to be in cash and are easily processed through venmo or card.

  • Our guide service policy is that due to the low populations of Northern Pike on Great Sacandaga Lake, they must be released (only exception is if the fish somehow dies on us (very rare)). We allow the keeping of 3 fish per person and they can be filleted for an additional $25. Sport Island Pub in Northville will be happy to cook your food when they are open!

  • We do not provide lunch, so please pack food and drinks accordingly. There are several restaurants on the lake that we are happy to stop at \ for dine in or take out.

  • Absolutely! We work closely with other guides in area and can offer a multi-boat trip typically accommodating 6-8 people total.

  • Yes, if you are 16 years of age or older, you’re required to purchase a NYS fishing license. Even if you aren’t fishing, and maybe helping your kids and you touch the rod, you’re required a fishing license. If you’re on the ice and not fishing you need a license regardless.

  • Yes, Aarons Guide Service LLC is a fully insured guide service. Aaron is a fully licensed NYS Guide (#6164). The boat is a certified Public Vessel inspected by DEC every year. Aaron is certified in First Aid and CPR with First Aid available on board and on the ice.