Fishing
This remote lake has a good reputation for the many species and the relative quiet.
Over 300 acres with twisty shorelines.
Fishing species include lake trout, large- and small-mouth bass, brown bullhead, Kokanee salmon, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, and rainbow smelt.
Ice Fishing
This is one of the few places to go after walleye. Also rock bass and lake trout allowed, making Lake Kushaqua's remote location well worth seeking out.
Paddling
The 377-acre Kushaqua Lake is long and narrow with a very scenic shoreline and islands of Forest Preserve lands. It is possible to paddle through to Rainbow Lake and Buck Pond to the south. Take a whole day on the water by paddling to the Rainbow Lake Narrows, all the way to the far end of Rainbow Lake, and take detours up the North Branch of the Saranac River.
Take care as motorboats are allowed.
Getting There
- In summer, access is via Buck Pond Campground off Route 30, 12 miles east of the Hamlet of Paul Smiths.
- Hard surface ramp. Parking for 20 cars and trailers.
- In winter, access is via the Kushaqua-Mud Pond Road, which is a seasonal road that is not plowed. Walk in or snowmobile to the lake.
