Otisco Lake

Otisco Lake

Marcellus, Onondaga County, NY
3mi²
ft
Directions
Lake Information

Otisco Lake, nestled in the heart of Onondaga County, is a true gem among the Finger Lakes of New York. As the most easterly of the eleven Finger Lakes and eighth in size, Otisco Lake holds a special place among its counterparts. What sets it apart is its unique division into two distinct basins, courtesy of a causeway at the southern tip. The southern basin, smaller and shallower, presents remarkably turbid waters, in stark contrast to the relatively clearer north basin, making this lake a fascinating blend of waterbodies within one. Physically, Otisco Lake stands at an elevation of 787 feet, covering an area of 1,877 acres and boasting a picturesque shoreline that spans 15 miles. Its length extends to 5.4 miles, and at its widest, it measures 0.75 miles. The lake plunges to a maximum depth of 76 feet, with a mean depth of 34 feet to the north of the causeway and a mere 6 feet to the south of it. The lake resides entirely within Onondaga County, specifically within the towns of Marcellus and Spafford. Otisco Lake's aquatic life and plant growth add to its allure. The north end of the lake houses the largest concentration of aquatic vegetation, making it a haven for various fish species and a popular spot for anglers. The south end, situated just north of the causeway and in Turtle Bay, also boasts some greenery. A thin fringe of aquatic plants runs parallel to the eastern shoreline and parts of the west side, adding to the lake's charm. In the clear waters to the north, these aquatic plants thrive, creating ideal conditions for fish. Access to this natural wonder is relatively easy. You can find a concrete ramp on West Valley Road, offering a launch point for your watercraft. With parking facilities accommodating up to 13 cars and trailers, it's a convenient starting point for your adventures on the lake. If you prefer fishing from the shore or wish to hand-launch your boat, you can access the causeway via West Valley Road. Anglers are particularly drawn to Otisco Lake due to its diverse fish population. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are abundant, creating excellent opportunities for those who love the thrill of landing these feisty fighters. Additionally, walleye is a popular catch during the spring, early summer, and fall. A prime fishing spot, especially for tiger musky, is the weedy expanse of the north and south ends. Otisco Lake may very well be one of the best locations in the state to reel in these trophy-sized predators. Notably, the lake also offers a unique ice fishing experience during the winter months, with bluegills and pumpkinseeds being among the popular catches. Otisco Lake provides the perfect setting for a day of fishing, relaxation, and enjoyment of New York's natural beauty. The tranquil waters, the lush aquatic plants, and the array of fish species make it a top choice for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you're casting your line from the shore, venturing out onto the lake in a boat, or trying your luck on the ice in the winter, Otisco Lake delivers a serene and rewarding experience. In conclusion, Otisco Lake is a unique and beautiful destination for anyone seeking a blend of angling excitement and natural splendor. Its division into two basins and the contrasting water conditions they offer make it a truly fascinating location. For a peaceful day of fishing and a chance to connect with nature, Otisco Lake in Onondaga County is a place you won't want to miss.

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Current Conditions

62°F°
Feels like 64°F°
Cloudy
Today's High
68°F°
Today's Low
53°F°

Water Temperature

68°F
Updated: (May 28)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Otisco Lake is 68°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind1 mph W (Gust 5 mph)
Pressure
29.89 inHg
Visibility14 mi
Humidity81%
Cloud Cover100%

Forecast: Friday, May 30

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
55°F°
10 AM
61°F°
1 PM
66°F°
4 PM
68°F°
7 PM
63°F°
10%

Temperature

High
68°F°
Low
53°F°

Precipitation

Chance31%
Amount0.03"
Typerain

Wind

6mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
21mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed10 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise9:30 AM
Sunset12:36 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index6 (High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
2/5

Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

8:14 PM - 10:44 PM

9:39 AM - 12:09 PM

Minor Times (Good)

12:13 PM - 1:43 PM

4:00 AM - 4:00 AM

Outlook for Friday at Otisco Lake

Expect temperatures ranging from 53°F to 68°F. There's a 31% chance of rain, potentially bringing around 0.03" rain. Winds will be averaging 6 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 21 mph. The maximum UV index will be 6 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 8:14 PM and 9:39 AM, or try the minor windows near 12:13 PM and 4:00 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Otisco Lake.

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May 29th 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
N/A
Area
3 mi²
Coordinates
42.893, -76.304

Weather Forecast

Friday

68°F
53°F

Saturday

56°F
47°F

Sunday

56°F
44°F

Monday

67°F
46°F

Tuesday

77°F
48°F

Wednesday

80°F
59°F

Thursday

73°F
59°F

Friday

66°F
55°F

Saturday

71°F
55°F
Friday - 5/30/2025
68°F
53°F
12am
57°F
68°F
29.83 hPa
5 mph
SSW
G: 10 mph
2am
55°F
68°F
29.81 hPa
6 mph
SW
G: 14 mph
4am
54°F
68°F
29.78 hPa
7 mph
SW
G: 15 mph
6am
53°F
68°F
29.77 hPa
7 mph
SW
G: 14 mph
8am
57°F
68°F
29.74 hPa
8 mph
SW
G: 19 mph
10am
61°F
68°F
29.72 hPa
9 mph
WSW
G: 20 mph
12pm
65°F
68°F
29.68 hPa
10 mph
W
G: 20 mph
2pm
67°F
68°F
29.62 hPa
8 mph
W
G: 17 mph
4pm
68°F
68°F
29.57 hPa
7 mph
W
G: 14 mph
6pm
66°F
68°F
29.54 hPa
5 mph
WNW
G: 11 mph
8pm
61°F
68°F
29.53 hPa
2 mph
NW
G: 6 mph
10pm
58°F
68°F
29.52 hPa
3 mph
WSW
G: 9 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Otisco Lake

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

36°F

On Mar 13

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

53°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: July (76°F).
  • Coolest avg: March (38°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: May → June (+13°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-11°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

12am1am2am3am4am5am6am7am8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm7pm8pm9pm10pm11pm06121824

Wind Direction

208°

Pressure

1010 mb

Cloud Cover

92%

Visibility

13 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

FriSatSunMonTueWedThuFriSat0.008.8617.7226.5835.44
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Frequently Asked Questions About Otisco Lake

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