Cuba, Rushford lakes: Over 150 years of recreation

CUBA — For a century and a half, locals have flocked to Cuba Lake, and later to Rushford Lake, for fun on the water.

The lake was built in 1858 as a source of water for the Genesee Valley Canal, which stretched from Rochester to Olean. By the turn of the century, many of today’s cottages had been built, with residents from area communities taking up summer lodgings on the man-made lake.

The lake covers 445 acres, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, and reaches a depth of 46 feet, with an average depth around 20 feet.

Public boating access is provided at the DECbuilt boat launch site off West Shore Road. Smaller hand-launched boats like canoes and kayaks can be launched directly into Rawson Creek near its inlet to the lake. Trailered boats can use the concrete ramp and floating docks provided at the main launch area.

Pontoon boats are a favorite way for many to tour the lake, while speed boats pull water tubers and skiers. Jet craft are also used on the lake.

For anglers, Cuba Lake is home to walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, northern pike and several species of panfish.

Fish habitat in Cuba Lake is provided mainly by beds of aquatic vegetation, according to the DEC, but fishermen should not attempt fishing below depths of 15 to 20 feet from June through September due to oxygen depletion.

Northern pike are the largest fish in the lake, with fish up to 3 feet long reported. Walleye are the dominant predator in the lake, with a few growing beyond 20 inches. Smallmouth bass are plentiful, but the DEC warns that their growth rate is slow, taking five years to reach the minimum legal size.

Largemouth bass are also found, but are far less com- mon. Panfish are the most common type of fish on the lake, with yellow perch, rock bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, brown bullhead and black crappie being found. Yellow perch are the dominant panfish species, while rock bass and other species still provide for good angling opportunities. Common carp can also be found, with weights up to 20 pounds reported.

In the winter, Cuba Lake’s water level is drawn down, but still holds opportunities when the ice is thick enough, as it’s one of the few area lakes that of-