Discover the top things to do in Lake Erie and Western NY, from Niagara Falls and Buffalo attractions to parks, museums, dining, and family activities.

Things to Do

Top Things to Do in Lake Erie & Western New York

Learn New York fishing license requirements, fees, exemptions, and how to get a license before fishing Lake Erie and Western NY with RNK Outdoors.

Fishing License

New York Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers

Learn about NY waterfowl hunting licenses, resident and nonresident requirements, duck and goose regulations, bag limits, HIP registration, and more.

Hunting License

Western NY Waterfowl Hunting & Licensing Guide

Chase your limit on Lake Erie's best walleye grounds. 4-hour offshore charters with RNK Outdoors.

Erie Walleye

Lake Erie Walleye Trip with RNK Outdoors

Join expert guide Ryan Garra for intensive 4 hour private waterfowl hunting. Book today.

Private Duck Hunt

Private Waterfowl Hunt in Buffalo & Grand Island

Join expert guided shared duck hunt targeting mallards, wigeon, redheads in Buffalo Grand Island. Book now.

Lake Erie Duck

SHARED DUCK HUNT - Buffalo & Grand Island

<ul><li>First Aid and CPR Certified</li></ul>

Lake Erie Diver Duck Hunts<ul><li>Lead guided four-hour diver duck hunts targeting redheads, bluebills, canvasbacks, buffleheads and goldeneyes on Lake Erie.</li><li>Specialise in sea ducks and other migrating diver species, with puddle ducks such as mallards and black ducks also pursued on seasonal hunts.</li></ul>Spring Walleye Charters<ul><li>Run walleye charters on the Lake Erie walleye grounds, with most trips limiting out in under two hours.</li><li>Trips are typically four hours of fishing time, and guests are advised to bring a cooler.</li></ul>Youth and First-Time Hunters<ul><li>Take young hunters into the field on group and party trips, with a guest harvesting a first duck on a Niagara River youth hunt.</li><li>Offer hunting trips suited to first-time hunters, with boating and firearm safety kept central to the day.</li></ul>

Learn more about Ryan Garra a Lake Erie Fishing & Waterfowl Hunting in RNK Outdoors

Ryan Garra - RNK Outdoors

Took some time with my oldest son and we landed a 2 man limit in under an hour and a half.
#takeyourkidsfishing #walleyefishing #memories #fathersonfishing #lakeeriewalleye #fishing

Fresh caught walleye displayed on cleaning station at Hanover Boat Launch in Elma New York

A Successful Father-Son Trip Spotlighting Peak Summer Walleye Patterns on Lake Erie

Experience Lake Erie and Western New York with RNK Outdoors, where more than 20 years of local hunting and fishing experience comes together with a genuine respect for the outdoors. Based around Buffalo and the surrounding waters of Western New York, RNK Outdoors offers guided Lake Erie fishing trips and waterfowl hunts designed around the experience—not just the trophy or the final photo. Lake Erie is home to some of the region’s most exciting freshwater fishing, with opportunities to target smallmouth bass, walleye, perch, and catfish during the spring and summer seasons. Whether you're an experienced angler or looking to introduce the family to fishing, trips are focused on making the most of your time on the water and creating memories along the way. When fall arrives, RNK Outdoors shifts its focus to the incredible waterfowl opportunities of Western New York. Lake Erie diver duck hunts are a specialty, with opportunities for bluebills, redheads, canvasbacks, buffleheads, goldeneyes, mergansers, and other migrating waterfowl. Mallards, black ducks, wood ducks, wigeons, and teal are also among the species pursued on seasonal hunts, while goose hunts provide another exciting way to experience Western New York's waterfowl migration. The experience goes beyond simply getting outdoors. Ryan believes hunting and fishing should be about appreciating nature, respecting the animals being pursued, enjoying time with friends and family, and sharing the outdoors with others. Clients are treated like longtime friends, with extensive preparation going into every trip to give the group the best possible opportunity for a successful day. RNK Outdoors operates a 2026 Grizzly 2072CC powered by a Mercury 115 outboard and serves Lake Erie, the Upper and Lower Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and surrounding Western New York waters. Meeting locations vary by trip and conditions, so contact the guide for the current launch point. Whether you're chasing Lake Erie smallmouth bass, walleye, or perch, or looking for a memorable Western New York waterfowl hunt, RNK Outdoors offers an authentic guided outdoor experience built around the adventure from start to finish.

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Waterfowl resting on fallen log over water in Elma New York

Waterfowl decoys arranged on concrete barrier near water in Elma New York hunting setup

Black dog with wet fur sitting outdoors in Elma New York

Boat under construction with wooden frame being built in workshop garage in Elma New York

Large fish caught in fishing net on boat deck in Elma New York

Fishing from boat deck on calm waters in Elma New York with fishing rod extended

Two hunters displaying harvested waterfowl during hunting trip in Elma New York

Smallmouth bass catch fishing in Elma New York

Smallmouth bass caught fishing in Elma New York

Waterfowl hunting success with mixed bag of ducks on boat deck in Elma New York

Successful duck hunting display with multiple waterfowl arranged after hunt in Elma New York

Historic stone building illuminated with warm orange lighting at night in Elma New York

Harvested waterfowl laid out on snowy boat deck with landing net in Elma New York

Two smallmouth bass caught while fishing in Elma New York displayed on boat

Ice fishing scene in snowy winter conditions in Elma New York with frozen lake and snow-covered landscape

Lake Erie is a strong smallmouth bass fishery, offering rocky reefs, shoals, drop-offs, and deeper structures where bass can feed and hold throughout 

Lake Erie Smallmouth Bass Fishing Charters 

Buffalo sits where Lake Erie, the Niagara River, and the Buffalo River meet, giving anglers access to a wide range of freshwater fishing opportunities

Buffalo Fishing Report

A Lake Erie smallmouth charter gives anglers a chance to target one of the lake's most popular game fish while fishing areas selected for current cond

Lake Erie Smallmouth Charter

Lake Erie Waterfowl guide  – Book Your Adventure 

Book your Lake Erie fishing or hunting adventure with RNK Outdoors in Western NY and experience the thrill of chasing fish and waterfowl with a guide who knows the area. Gather your family and friends, step aboard the charter boat, and reserve your unforgettable outdoor adventure today!

Experience Premier Lake Erie Duck Hunting &amp; Fishing Charters with RNK Outdoors​Welcome to RNK Outdoors LLC, Western New York’s premier choice for world-class Lake Erie duck hunting and guided fishing trips. Led by Captain Ryan—a USCG-licensed guide with over 20 years of local experience—we provide safe, professional, and action-packed outdoor adventures tailored for hunters and anglers of all skill levels.​- World-Class Lake Erie Waterfowl Hunts​Experience the thrill of late-season waterfowl hunting on Lake Erie. During peak migration and wintering patterns, Lake Erie hosts massive rafts of diver ducks, offering an unbeatable duck hunting experience. When you hire RNK Outdoors as your Lake Erie duck hunting guide, you get more than just a guide, you get the entire experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;​Target Species: Redheads, Canvasbacks, Scaup (Bluebills), and other migrating diver ducks.​Prime Season: December through early January. Spots fill fast during peak migration—book early to secure your preferred dates!​- Action-Packed Lake Erie Fishing Charters​Beyond the duck blind, RNK Outdoors offers top-tier sportfishing trips on Lake Erie and its renowned Western New York tributaries. Whether you're chasing trophy fish or filling the cooler, Captain Ryan knows where the fish are biting.​Target Species: Walleye, Yellow Perch, Smallmouth Bass, and Channel Catfish.​All Skill Levels: Perfect for seasoned anglers, corporate outings, and family trips.​- Dedicated to Youth Mentorship &amp; Veteran Trips​At RNK Outdoors, outdoor sports are about more than just the harvest—they're about tradition and community.​Youth Hunts &amp; Angling: Captain Ryan is passionate about teaching the next generation of outdoorsmen and women, sharing proven techniques, field safety, and building confidence.​Veteran Trips: We proudly host dedicated trips to honor and give back to our nation's military veterans.​-Ready for an Unforgettable Lake Erie Adventure?​Whether you're aiming for a limit of diver ducks or your next personal best walleye, trust RNK Outdoors LLC to deliver a safe, professional, and memorable experience on the water.​ [Call / Contact Us Today to Reserve Your Dates!]

Get answers to your questions about Lake Erie fishing and hunting trips with RNK Outdoors, including pricing, trip options, seasonal species, what to bring, and booking details.

<h2>Meet Captain Ryan Garra – Your Lake Erie Fishing &amp; Hunting Captain</h2>Ryan Garra is the captain behind RNK Outdoors, bringing more than 20 years of fishing and hunting experience to Western New York. His passion for the outdoors comes from a genuine love of nature, time on the water, and sharing the outdoor experience with others. For Ryan, a great trip is about much more than catching a big fish or bringing home birds—it’s about making memories, learning something new, and giving every guest an experience they’ll want to remember.<h3>Western NY Experience &amp; Local Knowledge</h3>With years spent fishing and hunting throughout the region, Ryan has developed an extensive understanding of Lake Erie, seasonal patterns, and the surrounding Western New York waters. RNK Outdoors offers fishing trips targeting smallmouth bass, walleye, perch, and catfish, along with seasonal duck and goose hunts. Ryan takes the time to prepare for each outing while keeping safety, responsible hunting, conservation, and respect for the outdoors at the center of every trip.<h3>Sharing the Outdoors With the Next Generation</h3>Ryan believes some of the best parts of fishing and hunting are the memories created along the way. He especially enjoys taking young anglers and hunters outdoors, helping them develop skills, gain confidence, and experience the excitement of being on the water or in the field. He also enjoys taking veterans out and creating meaningful outdoor experiences. Whether it's teaching a young angler how to work a lure or introducing a new hunter to the field, Ryan enjoys sharing the knowledge and traditions that make the outdoors special.<h3>Family, Friends &amp; Unforgettable Adventures</h3>For Ryan, hunting and fishing are about spending quality time with the people who matter. Some of his favorite memories come from sharing outdoor adventures with his own children and making the most of whatever conditions the day brings. Even an unexpected change in weather can turn into a story worth telling. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly Lake Erie fishing trip or a Western New York waterfowl hunt, Ryan focuses on making the entire experience enjoyable from beginning to end.<h3>Step Aboard the 2026 Grizzly 2072CC</h3>Your fishing adventure takes place aboard a 2026 Grizzly 2072CC powered by a Mercury 115 outboard, a capable setup built for exploring Lake Erie and the surrounding Western New York waters. The boat accommodates up to 3 fishing guests, while hunting capacity varies depending on the trip. From chasing smallmouth bass and walleye to pursuing migrating ducks and geese, guests can expect a hands-on experience led by a captain with deep local knowledge.Come experience Lake Erie and Western New York with RNK Outdoors and Captain Ryan Garra—where the adventure, the outdoors, and the memories are all part of the trip.

The map shows where we hunt and fish . The red area is our primary hunting and fishing area depending on time of year and hunting and fishing conditions. The pins represent guest meeting locations.

Lake Erie Hunting And Fishing Locations

Meet Captain Ryan Garra

Our Latest News & Updates

Check the latest Western NY fishing report for current fish activity, productive areas, bait, seasonal patterns, and fishing techniques across the region.

Western NY Fishing Report 

Get the latest WNY Ice Fishing Report with ice conditions, top fishing spots, target species, techniques, gear, weather updates, and more.

WNY Ice Fishing Report

Learn about ice fishing Buffalo NY, including target species, productive techniques, essential gear, ice safety, fishing licenses, and winter fishing preparation.

Ice Fishing Buffalo NY

Plan Lake Erie musky fishing with practical tips on seasonal patterns, productive structure, casting, trolling, tackle, water temperature, and safe fish release.

Lake Erie Musky Fishing

Fish Lake Erie with a local guide and learn how seasonal conditions, depth, structure, electronics, and fishing techniques help locate popular Lake Erie species.

Fishing Guides on Lake Erie

Western New York Waterfowl Hunting offers opportunities to pursue several duck species across seasonal wetlands and waterways. 

Western NY Waterfowl Hunting: Duck Species, Seasons & What to Expect

Prepare for Buffalo Duck Hunting with tips on clothing, licensing, equipment, cold weather, guided hunts, and changing conditions in Western New York.

Buffalo Duck Hunting Guide: What to Bring, What to Expect & How to Prepare

Learn what families can expect from Family Fishing Lake Erie, including guided fishing, safety, equipment, fishing conditions, and outdoor experiences.

Family Fishing & Outdoor Adventures on Lake Erie: What to Expect on a Guided Trip 

Plan a Lake Erie smallmouth charter to fish productive reefs, shoals, and deeper structure with a local guide and learn what to bring before your trip.

Get the latest Buffalo fishing report, including fish species, productive locations, seasonal conditions, bait, techniques, and Lake Erie fishing tips.

Book a Lake Erie smallmouth bass fishing charter to target bass around rocky reefs, shoals, drop-offs, and deeper structure with an experienced local guide.

Explore things to do in Buffalo NY, including fishing, hunting, Lake Erie activities, wildlife observation, and seasonal outdoor experiences across Western New York.

Best Outdoor Activities in Buffalo & Western New York: Fishing, Hunting & Lake Erie Adventures

Learn about Lake Erie Walleye Fishing by season, where to find walleye, effective techniques and lures, strategy adjustments, and what to expect from a charter.

Lake Erie Walleye Fishing: Best Seasons, Locations & Techniques

Captain Ryan Garra owner of RNK Outdoors LLC

<h1>Lake Erie Fishing Charters FAQ &amp; Common Questions</h1>1. What is included in the cost of a Lake Erie fishing charter or waterfowl hunt?Your charter rate covers all necessary fishing tackle, rods, reels, live bait, lures, and safety equipment (USCG-approved life jackets). For waterfowl hunts, decoys and blinds are provided. You only need to bring a valid NYS fishing or hunting license, appropriate clothing for seasonal weather, and any personal food or beverages. 2. Do I need a New York State fishing or hunting license before the trip?Yes. Every guest aged 16 and older must possess a valid New York State fishing license for fishing charters, or a valid NYS hunting license with a HIP registration number and duck stamp for waterfowl trips. Licenses must be purchased online from the NYS DEC prior to arriving at the marina or meeting location. 3. What fish species can we target, and what is the best time of year?Target species depend on the season across Lake Erie and Western New York waters:<ul><li>Walleye: Peak season runs late May through August.</li><li>Smallmouth Bass: Excellent action from May through September.</li><li>Yellow Perch &amp; Catfish: Highly productive during summer and early fall.</li><li>Waterfowl: Governed by official NYS DEC duck and goose hunting season dates.</li></ul> 4. How many people can join a single fishing trip or duck hunt?To ensure a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience, trip capacity varies by boat and location. Most guided trips accommodate small groups up to 4 to 6 guests. Contact Captain Ryan directly to discuss group size, custom bookings, or multi-boat arrangements for larger parties. 5. Where do we meet for our guided trip or charter?Departure locations depend on target species, water conditions, and seasonal fish movements across Lake Erie, the Niagara River, and Western New York tributaries. Exact marina or launch launch site addresses and directions are provided upon booking confirmation. 6. What happens if weather or rough water cancels our trip?Safety is our highest priority. If severe weather, high wind, or unsafe water conditions force a cancellation, Captain Ryan will notify you as early as possible. You will have the option to reschedule your trip for a mutually agreeable future date or receive a full refund of your deposit. 7. Are children and beginner anglers welcome on board?Absolutely. RNK Outdoors specializes in family-friendly fishing trips. Captain Ryan enjoys teaching young anglers and beginners basic techniques, safety practices, and fish handling to help build confidence and skills on the water. 8. How do I reserve my charter date and what is the cancellation policy?You can reserve your date online through our website booking system or by calling directly. A deposit is required to secure your date, with the remaining balance due on the day of your trip. Deposits are fully refundable if cancellations are made at least 14 days prior to your scheduled departure.

Waterfowl and duck hunting on Lake Erie

JOIN ME OUT ON THE WATER 

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

ALL DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.  Trips that are canceled due to weather, equipment failure, or any reason the outfitter can NOT make it will be rescheduled based on availability of dates. Any refund is solely at the discretion of RNK Outdoors.   Customers wishing to cancel their trip will be offered a chance to reschedule. 

Bird Cleaning

Join Captain Ryan Garra for an intensive 4-hour guided waterfowl hunt targeting Redheads, Blue Bills (scaup), Canvasbacks, Bufflehead, Goldeneye, and other Diver duck and Sea Duck species as well as Mallards, Black Ducks, and other puddle ducks along key flyways on Lake Erie and Niagara River. This shared hunt is $375 per hunter, with space for up to 5 hunters. A 6th hunter may be added upon request, subject to availability. ALL DUCK HUNTS INCLUDE A HOT LUNCH ON THE GRILL (food options to be discussed with the guide at least 3 DAYS PRIOR to the hunt)Operating out of a custom, purpose built boat blind. RNK Outdoors puts you in the best positioning to bring fast-flying birds right into range. Please note that meeting spots may vary depending on bird movement and weather conditions, so please contact the guide prior to your trip to confirm your final departure location.

American Wigeon

Black Duck

Mallard

Redhead

A fresh chef's salad featuring crisp mixed greens topped with sliced turkey and ham, hard-boiled eggs, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded cheese.

Chef's Salad

A classic turkey sandwich made with tender, oven-roasted turkey, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, cheese, and a touch of creamy mayo, all layered between fresh, soft bread.

Turkey Sandwich

Grizzly 2072 CC

4.00hour

Lake Erie Duck Hunt

Join Ryan Garra for an intensive 4-hour guided waterfowl hunt targeting Redheads, Bluebills, Canvasbacks, bufflehead, and other diver ducks, sea ducks, and some puddle duck species such as Mallards and Black Ducks along key flyways in Buffalo and Grand Island. This private hunt is limited to a maximum of 5 hunters, with the base cost covering up to 4 hunters. A 5th hunter may be added to the trip. If you would like to bring a 6th hunter, please reach out directly to the guide to discuss availability and pricing. ALL DUCK HUNTS INCLUDE A HOT LUNCH ON THE GRILL. (food options to be discussed with the guide at least 3 DAYS PRIOR TO THE HUNT)Operating out of the Grizzly 2072cc with custom purpose built boat blind and prime shore setups, this morning action focuses on strategic decoy placement, calling, and positioning to bring fast-flying birds right into range. Please note that meeting spots may vary depending on bird movement and weather conditions, so please contact the guide prior to your trip to confirm your final departure location.

5.00hour

PRIVATE Lake Erie Waterfowl Hunt

Air fee

Bait's fee

Divemaster's Fee

Mate's fee

Nitrox fee

Trimix fee

Fish Cleaning

take a ride out to the walleye grounds of Lake Erie and chase after a limit.&nbsp;typical charter time slots are 4 hours (of fishing NOT counting the ride in and out), but most charters (2 man limits) have been happening in under 2 hours.&nbsp;bring a cooler to take home your fish, or for bags of filets if you add on the fish cleaning service

Meet your Captain Ryan Garra

Expertise

Accolades

Articles by Ryan Garra