As temperatures begin to drop in the coming weeks, migratory trout and salmon will start entering numerous Lake Ontario tributaries in New York. This annual event attracts thousands of anglers to try their luck at catching these large migratory fish. Last year, nearly 150,000 angler trips were made in September and October. Pacific salmon (Chinook and coho) are the most frequently caught species, with opportunities to catch steelhead (rainbow trout), brown trout, and an occasional Atlantic salmon in select waters.
As with last year, the abnormally dry late summer conditions have caused low flow conditions in many eastern tributaries, so targeting larger streams and rivers is recommended. Through its Fall Fishing Program, NYS Canal Corporation releases water from the Erie Canal into Lake Ontario tributaries, providing enhanced fishing opportunities for trout and salmon. Visit the NYS Canals website for the 2026 release schedule for Eighteenmile, Oak Orchard, Johnson, and Sandy creeks.
Share Your Angling Experience to Help Inform Fisheries Management!
When fishing, be on the lookout for DEC Technicians as they conduct angler interviews during their annual Lake Ontario Tributary Creel Survey. The information they gather plays a part in management decisions about the Lake Ontario fishery. Spending a few minutes to share how your fishing experience went is time well spent.
Fishing Resources
Pacific Salmon Fishing in Lake Ontario Tributaries
Steelhead Fishing in Lake Ontario Tributaries
Fishing the Salmon River
I FISH NY Guide to Great Lakes Fishing (PDF)
Lake Ontario Tributary Salmon & Trout Identification (YouTube)
View the Central NY Fishing Hotline and Western NY Fishing Hotline for the latest news and conditions on fishing in the area.
Salmon and trout migrating from the Great Lakes up rivers and streams to spawn offers anglers the opportunity to catch big fish in shallower waters (photos: top left - coho salmon; top right - steelhead/rainbow trout; bottom left - brown trout; bottom right - Chinook salmon)