2026 Walleye Fishing Season Outlook & 2025 Recap
St. Lawrence River Fishing with Captain Dale Gillette – Moon Phase Charters
The St. Lawrence River continues to prove why it is one of the premier freshwater fisheries in North America. Each season brings new memories, new anglers, and some incredible fish hitting the deck. As we look ahead to the 2026 walleye fishing season in Clayton, New York, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the highlights from 2025 and what anglers can expect when they book a trip with Moon Phase Charters.
Based in Clayton in the heart of the Thousand Islands region, Moon Phase Charters and Captain Dale Gillette spend hundreds of hours each season studying fish behavior, seasonal patterns, and the moon phases that influence feeding windows on the St. Lawrence River.
2025 Season Recap: A Year of Incredible Walleye Fishing
The 2025 fishing season on the St. Lawrence River was one to remember. From early spring through the heat of summer and into the fall transition, anglers aboard Moon Phase Charters experienced some of the most consistent walleye action the river has produced in recent years.
Throughout the season, we saw excellent numbers of quality fish, including multiple 30-inch class walleye coming over the rails. These fish are a testament to the strength of the fishery and the continued conservation efforts that help maintain the St. Lawrence River as a world-class destination for anglers.
Many trips in 2025 featured steady action with both experienced anglers and first-time fishermen landing impressive catches. Whether trolling deep structure or working productive current edges along the river’s legendary shoals and reefs, the fish stayed active and cooperative throughout the season.
One of the biggest highlights was the number of trophy-sized walleye caught during prime moon phase feeding windows. At Moon Phase Charters, we carefully track lunar cycles and feeding patterns to maximize the chances of success for every trip. Time and time again, those peak feeding periods produced some of the biggest fish of the year.
But beyond the fish themselves, the best part of the season was spending time on the water with great people. Returning customers, new anglers visiting the Thousand Islands for the first time, and families experiencing their first St. Lawrence River fishing trip all helped make 2025 a season we won’t forget.
Why the St. Lawrence River is One of the Best Walleye Fisheries in North America
Anglers travel from across the country to fish the St. Lawrence River near Clayton, NY, and for good reason.
The river offers:
Massive schools of baitfish
Deep structure and rocky shoals
Strong current breaks that hold feeding fish
Exceptional water quality
These conditions create the perfect environment for growing large, healthy walleye populations. The Thousand Islands region, in particular, has become known for producing both high numbers of fish and trophy-sized catches.
Because of this, Clayton NY fishing charters have become a go-to option for anglers looking to experience the best freshwater fishing the Northeast has to offer.
What to Expect for the 2026 Walleye Fishing Season
Looking ahead to 2026, everything points toward another outstanding year on the St. Lawrence River.
Strong year classes of walleye continue to move through the system, meaning anglers should expect:
Consistent numbers of eater-size fish
Excellent chances at trophy walleye
Active feeding periods during prime moon phases
Productive fishing from spring through fall
Early season trips typically focus on post-spawn fish moving into feeding areas, while summer fishing centers around deep structure and current breaks. As the water begins to cool later in the season, the walleye often become aggressive again, creating some of the best opportunities for trophy fish.
No matter the time of year, the St. Lawrence River always has the potential to produce a fish of a lifetime.
Why Fish with Moon Phase Charters
When you book with Moon Phase Charters in Clayton, NY, you’re fishing with a guide who spends countless hours on the water studying the patterns of the St. Lawrence River.
Captain Dale Gillette focuses on:
Locating active fish using modern electronics
Following seasonal patterns and migration routes
Fishing around the most productive moon phases
Using proven techniques and high-quality tackle
The goal on every trip is simple: put clients on fish and create a memorable day on the water.
Whether you're an experienced angler chasing a trophy walleye or a family looking to experience the beauty of the Thousand Islands while catching fish, Moon Phase Charters offers a professional and enjoyable charter experience.
Plan Your 2026 St. Lawrence River Fishing Trip
The 2026 fishing season in Clayton, NY is shaping up to be another exciting year. Walleye fishing on the St. Lawrence River continues to draw anglers from all over the country, and prime dates for guided charters fill quickly.
If you're planning a trip to the Thousand Islands, now is the time to reserve your spot with Captain Dale Gillette and Moon Phase Charters.
Come experience:
World-class St. Lawrence River walleye fishing
Scenic views of the Thousand Islands
Professional guiding and proven fishing techniques
An unforgettable day on the water in Clayton, New York
We look forward to seeing returning customers and welcoming new anglers aboard in 2026.
Tight lines,
Captain Dale Gillette
Moon Phase Charters – Clayton, NY