Oct 9, 2020

Lower Niagara River
There has recently been decent to good king salmon action on the lower river. The Devils Hole drift is traditionally the best spot for boaters, but only experienced river anglers with suitable boats should attempt to fish there. The Artpark drift is more manageable and holds some kings as well. Charter boats working the Devils Hole drift have done well by controlled drifting with a three-way rig and cured skein. The Devils Hole area is also a top spot for shore anglers, with recent catches coming from the NYPA fishing platform and the shoreline upriver from the platform. Whirlpool State Park is another quality shore fishing spot for kings.

Due to maintenance, the upper and part of the lower Artpark trails are closed through the end of October. Three-quarters of the lower trail and 3 designated fishing access sites remains open. Lake trout season is closed in the lower river as of October 1, and will re-open in December 1.

NY DEC