Rust Belt Sport Fishing is a professional Lake Erie fishing charter based in Buffalo, New York, offering private guided fishing trips throughout Western New York. Operated by USCG Master Licensed Captain Kyle Kokanovich, this Lake Erie sport fishing charter is built on decades of hands-on experience and a true passion for the fishery. Captain Kyle has been fishing Lake Erie for more than 30 years and brings over 25 years of tournament angling knowledge to every trip. Guests fish aboard a fully insured and Coast Guard inspected 2020 Ranger 621, powered by twin Mercury 350 engines. This modern, high-performance charter boat provides a smooth, fast, and comfortable ride, allowing anglers to reach productive fishing areas efficiently. With a maximum capacity of five guests, each trip remains private, personal, and focused on quality time on the water rather than crowded conditions. Rust Belt Sport Fishing specializes in half-day and full-day Lake Erie guided fishing trips. Charters target the diverse species Lake Erie is known for, including walleye, smallmouth bass, salmon, trout, and perch. Peak season runs from June through August, when water conditions and fish behavior create outstanding opportunities for consistent action. Every trip is tailored to seasonal patterns, weather conditions, and guest experience levels. Captain Kyle’s approach goes beyond simply catching fish. Anglers are encouraged to learn proven techniques, understand seasonal movements, and gain insight into the strategies used in both tournament and charter fishing. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced angler wanting to refine your skills, trips are paced to match your comfort and goals. This family-friendly Lake Erie fishing charter welcomes anglers of all ages. Captain Kyle is known for his patience and ability to create a relaxed, enjoyable environment, making trips ideal for families and first-time anglers. Success is measured not just by fish caught, but by the smiles and memories made along the way. All trips depart from Sunlife Marina in Buffalo, conveniently located near downtown and the Lake Erie waterfront. Safety is always the top priority, with quality equipment, professional operation, and clear communication on every charter. If you are searching for a trusted Lake Erie fishing guide in Western New York, Rust Belt Sport Fishing delivers a reliable, educational, and rewarding experience on the water.

EPSG:4269

Great For Top Anglers

Best Spots

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great Guide

Good with Kids

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

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

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

A fisherman with a big catch at an unknown location

Four anglers with a small fish during a fishing trip

Captain

Experience the reel of Lake Erie deep sea fishing with Rust Belt Sport Fishing! Book your family-friendly charter boat adventure today and create unforgettable memories on the water

Rust Belt Sport Fishing provides private, guided fishing charters throughout Buffalo, NY, targeting Lake Erie, the Niagara River, and Lake Ontario. Guided by Captain Kyle Kokanovich, our trips specialize in catching Lake Erie walleye, trophy smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and seasonal salmon or trout. We provide all rods, tackle, and expert instruction for beginners, families, and experienced anglers across Western New York waters. Reserve your private charter today to secure your preferred date on the water.

Find clear answers to the most common questions about our local guided trips, from what gear to bring to the best time of year to fish on Lake Erie, so you can secure your booking with complete confidence.

Lake Erie & Ontario Catches & Fish Photos

Captain Kyle Kokanovich is the owner and operator of Rust Belt Sport Fishing, specializing in Walleye, Bass, Salmon, Trout, and Perch charters on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Kyle’s love for fishing began over 30 years ago growing up along the shores of Lake Erie, inspired by family traditions and countless days on the water. Over the years, he turned his passion into a profession, founding Rust Belt Sport Fishing to share his expertise with anglers of all ages.With over 25 years of hands-on experience, Kyle is an accomplished tournament angler with multiple victories on Lake Erie and surrounding waters. He brings both competitive insight and hands-on instruction to every trip, giving guests the opportunity to learn the techniques, strategies, and setups he uses for both tournament-level and charter fishing. Friendly, approachable, and deeply committed to each guest’s experience, Kyle ensures every trip is memorable, whether it’s a first catch for a child or a trophy fish for a seasoned angler.Guests fish directly with Captain Kyle Kokanovich, a USCG Master Licensed Captain. He operates a fully insured, Coast Guard–inspected vessel, ensuring safety, professionalism, and an enjoyable experience for anglers of all skill levels. The 2020 Ranger 621 is a fast, comfortable, and fully equipped boat powered by a Mercury 350 engine capable of reaching speeds up to 55 mph, along with a 15-horsepower Mercury trolling motor for precise boat control. The vessel also features a livewell for keeping catches fresh, advanced GPS and fish-finding electronics, and a spacious layout designed for both family-friendly charters and serious angling trips on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.Kyle’s decades of local knowledge make him one of the most trusted guides in Western New York. His experience spans Great Lakes fishing, allowing him to tailor every trip to the group’s needs while maximizing catch opportunities. Beyond guiding, Kyle is recognized for his tournament achievements, commitment to sustainable fishing practices, and involvement in local conservation efforts. He regularly participates in community events to educate anglers about Lake Erie and Lake Ontario’s ecosystems, helping ensure future generations can enjoy these waters.Guests consistently rate Captain Kyle as a top guide for his friendly demeanor, attention to detail, and ability to create unforgettable fishing experiences. When you book with Rust Belt Sport Fishing, you’re guaranteed adventure, education, and memories that last a lifetime.

Lake Erie & Ontario Fishing Locations

Rust Belt Sport Fishing

Captain Kyle Kokanovich

Top rated 7 hour walleye fishing charter on Lake Erie. All gear included, expert instruction.

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Fishing License

New York Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers

Buffalo Fishing Charters: Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is included in your Buffalo fishing charter rates?Every private charter rate includes all necessary fishing tackle, rods, reels, live bait, and custom lures tailored to the seasonal bite. Captain Kyle Kokanovich provides hands-on instruction for all experience levels, as well as complimentary fish cleaning and bagging at the end of your trip. 2. Do I need to purchase a New York State fishing license before our trip?Yes. All anglers aged 16 and older are required by state law to possess a valid New York State fishing license prior to boarding. Licenses are not included in the charter price and can be purchased quickly online via the NYS DEC website or at local sporting goods retailers around Buffalo. 3. How do deposits and payments work for booking a charter?A deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve your specific date on the calendar. The remaining balance is due on the day of your charter. Payments can be made via cash or major credit cards. 4. How many anglers can fish on a private Lake Erie or Niagara River charter?Charters are kept as private, focused groups to ensure comfortable casting room, personalized guidance, and maximum time with lines in the water. Specific passenger limits per trip type are listed directly on the booking menu. 5. What species do we target during different seasons in Western New York?Trip offerings shift seasonally to target the productive waters across Buffalo and Western New York:Spring: Lake Erie walleye, trophy smallmouth bass, and Niagara River trout.Summer: Peak Lake Erie walleye trolling, yellow perch, and smallmouth bass.Fall: Niagara River salmon and steelhead, along with late-season walleye. 6. What is your weather and cancellation policy for Lake Erie fishing charters?Safety on the water is the absolute top priority. If unsafe weather or heavy water conditions prevent a trip from running, Captain Kyle will evaluate conditions and contact you as early as possible. Weather cancellations initiated by the captain will be rescheduled for a mutually agreeable date, or your deposit will be refunded in full. 7. Can we keep the walleye, bass, or salmon we catch?Yes. Guests are welcome to keep fish that fall within legal NYS DEC season dates, length requirements, and daily bag limits. At the conclusion of the trip, Captain Kyle will clean and bag your catch so it is ready for your cooler. 8. What should guests bring on board for a full or half-day trip?To remain comfortable on Lake Erie or the Niagara River, guests should pack:Weather-appropriate clothing (wearing layers is highly recommended)Soft-soled, non-marking shoes or sneakersPolarized sunglasses, a hat, and lotion-based sunscreen (no aerosol spray)Personal food, snacks, and beverages for the boatA cooler left in your vehicle to transport bagged fish home safely

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