At Wayfound Outdoors, we believe that the Great Lakes offer more than just world-class angling; they provide a sanctuary for personal growth and restoration. Founded by Jared Jones, our mission is built on over 23 years of outdoor expertise and a deep conviction that nature is the ultimate classroom. Whether you are looking for a summer excursion or a specialized Rochester NY Fishing Charter: Ice Fishing, Salmon &amp; Steelhead expedition, our goal is to help every guest find clarity and confidence on the water. We don't just guide trips; we create environments where people feel seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. We specialize in the Father son fishing trip Rochester NY families have come to rely on for meaningful connection. Inspired by Jared’s own formative years fishing alongside his father and grandfather, Wayfound is dedicated to passing that legacy to the next generation. We recognize that many young men today feel unheard or overlooked, and we use the quiet focus of the wilderness to break down barriers, foster leadership, and help them step into the people they were created to be. As a premier Family fishing charter Rochester NY, we pride ourselves on providing "Family Friendly Adventures" that are accessible and engaging for all ages. Our primary focus is ensuring that families can relax and bond while we handle the logistics. All we ask is that participants bring their own fishing license and a spirit ready for adventure. The waters surrounding our region are legendary for their diversity and stunning scenery, making every Rochester NY fishing charter a unique opportunity to land a trophy. Our guided trips target a wide variety of local favorites, including Yellow Perch, Walleye, Pike, and Largemouth Bass. Whether we are navigating the vibrant summer bays or setting up for a winter morning on the ice, we leverage the very best of Great Lakes fishing to ensure your time on the water is both productive and transformative. For Wayfound Outdoors, this isn't just a business—it’s a calling. Our approach was deeply influenced by a life-changing experience Jared had in Florida, where a welcoming guide demonstrated the true power of outdoor mentorship. Today, we strive to be that bridge for others, breaking cycles of isolation and building a community of purposeful leaders. When you join us, you aren’t just booking a trip; you are investing in an experience that builds character and creates lasting memories for the next generation.

EPSG:4269

Steelhead Trout

High water- Fun Results

Headed out solo yesterday on a small Lake Ontario tributary and made it work. Water was running high but one steelhead found its way to the net. Solo days on the water have a different kind of energy — just you, the creek, and the grind. No excuses, no distractions. You read the water, trust your instincts, and stay in it until the fish shows up.

Spring steelhead season in Western New York is winding down. These fish won't be in the tribs much longer and every day on the water right now counts.

👇 DM us or hit the link below to book your guided trip before the season is gone.
📍 Western New York | Creek & Tributary Fishing
🎣 Half Day $357 | Full Day $457
🐟 Max 2 guests — personal, hands-on experience from start to finish

10'6" 3 weight flly rod
shimano compre reel

Rainbow trout caught in fishing net on shore in Rochester NY

Tough Water, One Steelhead & Good Company 🎣


Friday at 18 Mile Creek was not easy. High water, murky conditions, and a creek that had no interest in making things simple. But that's steelhead fishing in Western New York — sometimes the river deals you a bad hand and you figure it out anyway.

Headed out with Chris Carey and we ground it out all day. One steelhead landed and honestly in those conditions, we'll take it. There's something about earning a fish in tough water that hits different than an easy day. You read the water, adjust your presentation, stay patient, and trust the process. That's what WayFound Outdoors is built on.

The steelhead are still moving through Western New York tributaries and the season won't last much longer. Don't let it slip by.

👇 DM us or hit the link below to book your guided trip before the run is over.
📍 Western New York | Creek & Tributary Fishing
🎣 Half Day $357 | Full Day $457
🐟 Max 2 guests — personal and hands-on from start to finish

Rainbow trout catch being held at rocky shoreline in Rochester NY

Rainbow trout catch from fishing trip in Rochester NY

 Spring Steelhead Are Here 🎣 

We put 2 steelhead in the net at Round Pond Creek and the water is looking GOOD. Clear conditions, wax worms doing the work, and the fish are active. Spring tributary season in Western New York doesn't last forever — these windows open and close fast.

If you've been thinking about getting out on the water, stop thinking and start booking. WayFound Outdoors has guided trip dates available right now and we want to put you on fish just like these.

👇 Book your trip below or DM us to lock in your date before it's gone.
📍 Rochester, NY | Creek & Tributary Fishing
🎣 Half Day $357 | Full Day $457
🐟 Max 2 guests — personal, hands-on experience guaranteed

Shimano Compre
Kasting King Reel
waxworms
6mm peach bead

Rainbow trout caught fishing in shallow water near shoreline in Rochester NY

Solo Steelhead — Lake Ontario Tributary, March 17th

<div>Monday’s outing on a small Lake Ontario tributary produced one steelhead on clear, normal water levels — and honestly, one is all it takes to make a day worth it. Water was in great shape, running clear with normal flows, which made reading the water and finding fish a more technical game. We were running wax worms and stayed patient, and the steelhead showed up when it mattered. Late season tributary fishing like this is some of the most rewarding angling in Western New York — the fish are there, the water is clean, and all it takes is putting in the time and trusting the drift. Spring is here and the tributaries are alive. </div><div> </div><div>Book your guided trip with WayFound Outdoors and let’s get you tight to a Lake Ontario steelhead before the season closes out.</div>

<div>shimano compre</div><div>wax worms </div><div>small 6mm bead</div>

Fishing rod extending over muddy water with tree roots visible along the shoreline in Rochester NY

Brown Trout

Brown Trout on the Bite — LaSalle's Landing, March 5th

Early March delivered a solid outing at LaSalle's Landing Park in Rochester, NY. Water was running clear and the brown trout were cooperating — steady bites throughout the day with 1 to 5 fish landed. Clear water conditions meant dialing in the presentation was key, but when we got it right the fish responded. LaSalle's Landing continues to be a reliable late-winter spot for brown trout as water temps begin to creep up heading into spring. If you've been waiting for the right time to get out — that time is now. Book your guided trip with WayFound Outdoors and let's get you on the water.

12'6" Shimano Compre
white jigs
egg sacs- White primarily
floats

Atlantic salmon caught fishing in Rochester NY lying on snowy surface with measuring ruler

Brown trout caught fishing in Rochester NY lying on wooden debris

Atlantic salmon caught while fishing in Rochester NY lying on snowy surface with measuring ruler

American Yellow Perch

We Didn't Catch Many Fish. But That Wasn't Really the Point.

I'll be honest with you.
The fish weren't biting the way I wanted them to on Saturday. We drilled the holes, dropped the lines, and waited — and for the most part, Braddock Bay kept its fish to itself. If you came out expecting a cooler full of perch, I owe you an apology.
But here's the thing. By the time we were packing up and heading back across the ice, not a single family was talking about the fish.

What Actually Happened Out There
We had families show up at 8 in the morning — in the cold, in the dark almost, on a frozen lake — and something shifted the moment we walked out together. I've seen it before, but it never gets old. People put their phones away. Kids stopped fidgeting. Parents stopped rushing.
I watched one kid — couldn't have been more than 10 years old — just sit next to his dad for almost 20 minutes. No talking. No complaints about being cold. Just sitting there, shoulder to shoulder, staring at a hole in the ice waiting for something to happen. That's rare. That's actually really rare.
I watched families that barely knew each other an hour earlier start talking — really talking — around the conversation starter cards we handed out. You could almost see the walls come down in real time. One parent told me afterward it was the first time in months they'd had a conversation with their kid that didn't start with "put your phone away."
And at the end of the day, when it was time to pack up and head in — the kids didn't want to leave.
Let me say that again. It was cold. There weren't many fish. And the kids didn't want to leave.
That's when I knew we had something.

Why I Started This
WayFound Outdoors exists because I believe the outdoors does something to people that nothing else can replicate. It slows you down. It puts you in the present. It strips away everything that doesn't matter and leaves you with the people right in front of you.
Casting Connections is built on that idea. Yes, we fish. Yes, we teach you how to drill a hole and bait a hook and identify what you caught. But the fishing is just the excuse to get families somewhere they can actually hear each other.
The conversation starter cards, the Legacy Cast activity, the fireside lunch — all of it is designed around one goal: that a kid gets in the car at the end of the day and thinks I never knew that about my dad. I never knew that about my mom.
That's the catch we're after.

What's Next
Casting Connections isn't stopping at Braddock Bay.
We're taking this to Pulaski, NY for Fire & Flow — steelhead season on the Salmon River, a fire, food, and the same mission that made Saturday special. If you've never seen a steelhead fight, you're in for something completely different from perch fishing on a frozen bay. These fish run hard.
If Saturday resonated with you — or if you've been looking for something like this for your family — this is your next step.
👉 Get the details and reserve your spot for Fire & Flow
Spots are limited. Families who were on the ice Saturday get first look.

One Ask
If you were there on Saturday and it meant something to you — would you leave us a Google review? It takes 60 seconds and it's the single biggest way to help WayFound Outdoors reach more families who need exactly what we're building.
👉 Leave a review here
And if you want to help us make the next event even better, fill out our quick feedback survey. Good feedback, critical feedback — we want all of it.
👉 Take the 3-minute survey

To every family that showed up Saturday — thank you. You didn't just attend an event. You were part of the first one. And I don't think any of us will forget it.
The fish will bite next time. But honestly? Even if they don't — I think we'll be just fine.

Ice Fishing Rods
Ice fishing jigs
Auger
Tip-ups

Ice fishing scene on frozen lake in Rochester NY with anglers sitting in chairs with fishing equipment

Ice fishing setup on frozen lake in Rochester NY with fishing equipment and bait bucket

Ice fishing scene on frozen lake in Rochester NY with fishing rod and dog

American Yellow Perch caught ice fishing in Rochester NY during winter

Ice fishing setup on frozen lake in Rochester NY with chair and equipment

Ice fishing setup on frozen lake in Rochester NY with fishing hole cut in ice

Two anglers in winter fishing gear standing on snowy ice in Rochester NY

Ice fishing setup with folding chairs on frozen lake in Rochester NY

Winter fishing scene in Rochester NY with snowy overcast conditions

Fun Fishing With My Father at the Oak Orchard Dam

Some trips are about the fish. Some trips are about something more. This one was both.
On Friday, February 20th, I headed out to Oak Orchard Dam in Orleans County, New York with my father for a late-season steelhead and brown trout outing. Water levels were running high and slightly stained — typical for late February on Oak Orchard after snowmelt — but we came prepared and ready to work for it.
We ran spawn sacs and jigs through the slower seam edges, letting the drift do the talking. The high water pushed fish tight to the softer current breaks, and patience paid off. We landed 2 brown trout on spawn sacs and kept grinding through the afternoon chasing steelhead. The bite was slow, but slow days on the water with good company still beat most other days anywhere else.
Oak Orchard Dam is one of Western New York's most productive steelhead fisheries, drawing anglers from across the region every fall and winter. With Lake Ontario tributaries running strong and fish staging through February and into March, the window right now is wide open for anyone willing to put in the time and read the water.
At WayFound Outdoors, we guide creek and tributary fishing trips throughout the Rochester and Western New York area. Whether you're chasing steelhead at Oak Orchard, brown trout in local creek systems, or just looking to get outside and learn the craft — we're here for it.
Book your guided trip at wayfoundoutdoors.com and get on the water before the season closes out.

Atlantic salmon catch in Rochester NY during winter fishing trip

Freshly caught fish being displayed at fishing location in Rochester NY

Brown Trout Caught at Oak Orchard Dam

Conquer Burt Dam with Jared Jones: Your Guide to Winter Steelhead and Brown Trout

Thanksgiving weekend delivered one of those days you don't forget. November 28th at Burt Dam was absolutely on fire — we landed over 40 fish ranging from 20 to 40 inches, and the action was relentless from start to finish. The kind of day where your arms are tired before lunch and you're still grinning ear to ear.
The fish were fired up, aggressive, and hungry. Every drift felt like a chance and more often than not, it paid off. We were locked in — reading the water, dialing in the presentation, and putting clients on fish consistently throughout the day. When the bite is that good, everything just clicks.
40+ fish. 20 to 40 inches. Thanksgiving Day at Burt Dam. That's what WayFound Outdoors is about — getting you on the water when it matters most and making sure you're ready when the fish show up. Days like this don't come around all the time, but when they do, you want to be there.

Conquer the Gorge with Jared Jones: Your Guide to Winter Steelhead and Brown Trout

Claim your spot on the water with Wayfound Outdoors and experience the adrenaline of a trophy catch in the heart of Rochester, NY. Don't let the season slip away—book your adventure today and transform a simple fishing trip into a lifelong legacy of story and skill!

Jared Jones grew up without a lot of strong male voices in his life. What he did have was the water — and the quiet it offered when everything else felt uncertain. Over 23 years later, he's built Wayfound Outdoors around what he knows to be true: that something happens to a man when he steps away from the grind, gets his feet in a creek, and someone actually takes the time to ask how he's really doing. Jared isn't your average guide. He'll put you on fish — that's a given. But he'll also show up as a real person, not a service provider. He opens every trip with prayer and closes it the same way. In between, he asks the kinds of questions that make you think on the drive home. Men leave his trips feeling something they didn't expect to feel — lighter. More grounded. Like they got more than they paid for. That's not an accident. That's the whole point.

Find answers to all your Rochester NY fishing charter questions—from seasonal species and gear lists to pricing and safety—so you can book your Wayfound Outdoors adventure with total confidence.

Give a Fishing Adventure That They Won't Forget

Wayfound Outdoors Gift Cards - Rochester, NY Gift Cards

Jared Jones didn’t just stumble into the world of professional guiding; he was forged by it. With over 23 years of experience navigating the diverse landscapes of the Northeast—from the rugged banks of the Genesee River to the expansive waters of Lake Ontario—Jared has spent a lifetime mastering the art of the outdoors. His deep-seated knowledge of local fish behavior, water cycles, and seasonal shifts is the result of decades spent in the field, but his expertise goes beyond technical skill. For Jared, being a Rochester NY fishing guide is about sharing the same peace and clarity he discovered while fishing with his father and grandfather, ensuring every guest feels grounded and confident from the moment they step onto the water. Fishing has always been more than a hobby for Jared; it was his sanctuary. He founded Wayfound Outdoors because he intimately understands how the quiet of nature can offer a much-needed breath of fresh air during life's noisier chapters. This personal connection to the water is what makes a day with Captain Jared unique. He approaches every guided fishing trip with an observant eye and an empathetic ear, creating a space where anglers of all backgrounds feel truly heard and supported. Whether you are navigating a tricky drift in the river gorge or waiting for a strike on the lake, Jared’s presence provides a reassuring blend of calm patience and professional discipline. Beyond the rod and reel, Jared is a mentor dedicated to the growth and character of the next generation. At the heart of his mission is a belief that the outdoors is the ultimate classroom for building leaders and breaking cycles. He uses every expedition as an opportunity to instill values of integrity, accountability, and faithful stewardship of our natural resources. When you fish with Jared, you are learning from a man who views his work as a calling—a commitment to helping others step into their potential with confidence. His goal isn't just to help you land a trophy fish, but to ensure you leave the water with a stronger sense of purpose and a deeper connection to the world around you. Today, Wayfound Outdoors stands as a reflection of Jared’s vision for a future where mentorship and wellness go hand-in-hand with skill-building. Every trip is an extension of his values: choosing character over comfort and fostering a sense of genuine brotherhood among those he guides. Jared invites you to join him not just for a fishing trip, but for a high-quality outdoor experience rooted in faith and excellence. From the technical challenges of Steelhead fishing to the simple joy of a family outing, you can trust that Captain Jared’s expertise and heart are dedicated to making your time on the water both successful and deeply memorable.

Building Leaders and Hooking Memories: The Heart Behind Wayfound Outdoors

The Guide Who Actually Gives a Damn

Expert guided wade fishing for wild brown trout on Oatka Creek and Cohocton River. Book today.

Spring Trout

Western NY Spring Trout River Wayfound Outdoors

Top rated Rochester river fishing for steelhead and brown trout. Expert guides, small groups. Book today!

Creek Fishing

Rochester Creek Fishing Guide Wayfound Outdoors

Get your NY fishing license for Lake Ontario & the Genesee River. View 2026 resident & traveler fees, age rules, and local permit tips with Wayfound Outdoors.

Angler Permits

What Every Angler Needs to Know About NY Licenses

Explore Rochester's top attractions! From High Falls to the Strong Museum, discover local dining, family fun, and culture with Wayfound Outdoors.

Local Fun

Rochester After the Reel: Top Local Experiences

Frequently Asked Questions: Planning Your Wayfound Outdoors AdventureNavigating the waters of Lake Ontario or the Genesee River requires preparation. To help you get ready for your trip, we’ve compiled the most common questions our guests ask. If you don't see your answer here, feel free to reach out to Captain Jared directly! What is the best time of year to fish in Rochester, NY?Fishing in Rochester is a year-round pursuit, but the "best" time depends on your target. For Lake Ontario Salmon, the peak action is late August through October. If you are hunting for Genesee River Steelhead, November through April offers world-class tributary fishing. For those who prefer warmer weather, our summer charters for Brown Trout and Walleye are second to none. What is included in a Wayfound Outdoors fishing charter?We provide a fully "turn-key" experience. Your trip includes a professional Rochester NY fishing guide, high-quality rods and reels (specifically rigged for the target species), all lures, bait, and necessary safety equipment. For our river trips, we also provide technical advice and mentorship to help you master the drift. How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in Rochester, NY?Our pricing is designed to be transparent and competitive. Rates vary based on the duration (Half-Day vs. Full-Day) and the location, such as the Genesee River gorge or open-water Lake Ontario. For the most up-to-date pricing on our local trips and our international Mexico expeditions, please visit our Rates Page. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?Not at all! Wayfound Outdoors provides top-tier gear, including specialized centerpin or fly setups for the river and heavy-duty trolling gear for the lake. However, if you have a "lucky" rod you’d like to use, you are more than welcome to bring it along—just let the Captain know in advance so we can ensure it's rigged appropriately for the day's conditions. Is a fishing license required for my Rochester fishing trip?Yes, anyone 16 years of age or older must possess a valid New York State fishing license. You can easily purchase a one-day or annual license online through the NYS DEC website or at local sporting goods stores before your trip. For our Mexico trips, we will guide you through the specific permitting requirements for Xcalak. What should I bring on my Wayfound Outdoors charter?We recommend dressing in layers, as temperatures on the Genesee River or Lake Ontario can be significantly cooler than inland. Essential items include polarized sunglasses, sunblock, a hat, and any snacks or drinks you'd like for the day. If we are hitting the river, waterproof boots or waders are highly recommended. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in the trip?Absolutely! For our Lake Ontario and tributary trips where harvesting is legal and desired, Captain Jared will professionally clean and fillet your catch at the end of the day. We want you to go home ready to enjoy a fresh meal. Please bring a cooler with ice to keep your fillets fresh for the ride home. Are your Rochester fishing charters family-friendly?Mentorship is at the core of Wayfound Outdoors. We specialize in family-friendly fishing charters in Rochester and take great pride in teaching the next generation of anglers. We tailor the pace of the trip to keep kids engaged, safe, and—most importantly—having a blast while they learn to respect and enjoy the outdoors. What happens if there is bad weather on the day of my trip?Safety is our absolute priority. If Captain Jared determines that conditions on Lake Ontario or the river are unsafe due to high winds or lightning, we will work with you to reschedule your trip to the next available date. If a reschedule isn't possible, we offer a fair refund policy as outlined in our booking terms. How do I book a guided trip with Wayfound Outdoors?The easiest way to secure your spot is through our online booking portal. Because peak dates for Salmon and Steelhead runs fill up months in advance, we recommend booking as early as possible. You can also call us directly to discuss a customized itinerary or a multi-day package.

Rochester’s Premier Waters: Conditions and Expectations

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Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

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