Dec 2, 2019
Niagara River
Muskellunge, tiger muskellunge and regular black bass seasons close after Nov.30 on upper Niagara River. Anglers may still target bass by catch and release only, artificial lures only. Casting spoons or drifting egg sacs can produce rainbow trout catches from Broderick Park and Bird Island Pier during late fall.
Wednesday's high winds sent muddied waters down the Niagara River, impacting fishing for a few days. As clarity improves, look for the bite to pick back up along the shoreline first. Prior to the blow, both boat and shore anglers were enjoying a good bite for a mix of steelhead, lake trout and brown trout. Be aware that lake trout season is currently closed on the lower river and will reopen on Jan.1. Incidentally caught lake trout should be immediately released. Trout action had been best for boaters in the Devils Hole, Artpark and Coast Guard drifts. Controlled drifting with a three-way bottom bouncing rig and egg sacs, trout beads, shiners, Kwikfish and Mag Lips lures works well. Shore anglers were doing well at Artpark, Devils Hole and Whirlpool State Parks. Egg sacs, trout beads, egg pattern flies, shiners or jigs fished under a float, or casted spoons and spinners are good trout offerings. Casting spoons and spinners from docks at Fort Niagara is also producing some trout catches. Muskellunge and tiger muskellunge seasons extend through December 15th on the lower river. The NYPA fishing platform is closed today due to high water. All angler access (platform, stairs to shoreline, parking lot) at the NYPA Power Vista will close for the winter season as of Dec.1.
NY DEC