Nov 7, 2019

Niagara River
November is traditionally a top month to target muskellunge in the upper Niagara River. Target muskie by casting large stickbaits or by drifting and jigging large shiners or large (8"-10") tube jigs. Trolling around the outer Buffalo Harbor and breakwall gaps can produce a muskie catch as well.

At present, lower river waters are very turbid following a bout of high winds on Lake Erie. As clarity improves, look for the bite to pick up in the slightly calmer water along the shoreline first. Most anglers are now focused on trout and shore anglers have recently reported decent action along Artpark State Park and the NYPA fishing platform. Catches have primarily been a mix of steelhead, brown and lake trout, with the occasional king salmon or walleye mixed in. Be aware that lake trout season is currently closed on the lower river and will reopen on January 1st. Incidentally caught lake trout should be immediately released. Egg sacs, trout beads, egg pattern flies, shiners or jigs fished under a float, or casted spoons and spinners are good trout offerings.

NY DEC