Oct 29, 2021

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

Lower Niagara River king salmon fishing has slowed and the better fishing is seemingly behind us. Anglers are starting to catch some steelhead and incidental lake trout. Be aware lake trout season is closed on the lower river until December 1st. Incidentally caught lake trout should be promptly released. When steelhead show in earnest, they are typically available in good numbers for boaters in the Devils Hole and Artpark drifts, and at the NYPA fishing platform and Artpark, Devils Hole and Whirlpool State Parks for shore anglers. Controlled drifting with bottom bouncing rigs with egg sacs or trout beads works well for boaters. Good offerings for shore anglers include egg sacs, trout beads, egg flies, shiners or jigs fished under a float and casted spoons and spinners.

NY DEC