Dec 6, 2018

Niagara River
Lower river anglers report very good trout action from both boat and shore. Catches are primarily a mix of steelhead and brown trout, with some lake trout and the occasional walleye mixed in. Be aware that lake trout season is closed in the lower river until January 1st. Incidentally caught lake trout should be quickly returned to the water. Best trout catches for boaters have been in the Devils Hole and Artpark drifts, however some trout and possibly better numbers of walleye are available in the mid to lower drifts. A three-way bottom bouncing rig with egg sacs, Kwikfish lures or trout beads works well for boaters. Shore anglers can target trout by drifting egg sacs, egg pattern flies, shiners or jigs with plastics under a float, or by casting medium-sized spoons and spinners.

Muskellunge season closes today on most waters of the state, however the open season extends through December 15th on the lower Niagara River. The New York Power Authority (NYPA) Fishing Platform closes for the winter season at dusk today.

NY DEC