With recent nights in the low 40s, anglers in the Adirondacks have begun thinking about late-Summer/early-Fall trout fishing opportunities on their favorite local rivers, streams and ponds. Much of the summer has been hot and dry in the Adirondack region, leading to warm surface water temperatures on local rivers and ponds, which is not ideal for trout fishing. Cool evenings and precipitation are creeping their way back into regional weather forecasts, signaling time to prepare for late season trout fishing opportunities. Trout fishing can be very productive during the month of September in Adirondack trout waters, especially after cool nights or precipitation events. Trout feed readily during these times, in preparation for Fall spawning and the long, cold winter to come. Anglers are still advised to carry a thermometer and monitor water temperatures during this time of year, as summer is not completely over yet, and temperatures (>65°F) can still potentially be stressful for trout.

With Isonychia and blue-winged olive mayfly hatches occurring on local rivers like the Ausable, Saranac, Chateaugay and Salmon (Malone) fly anglers can find success using dry fly or nymph imitations that mimic these insects. Spin anglers will find success using spoons, stickbaits and natural baits such as worms as brook and brown trout become more aggressive in anticipation of the Fall spawning season.

Brook trout fishing on Adirondack backcountry ponds will also improve as water temperatures cool. Trout will become more accessible and start feeding closer to the surface as water temperatures drop to 60°F or less. Although not typically as consistent as Spring-time fishing, late season can be a great time to target pond-dwelling brook trout, and they are sure to be putting on their beautiful Fall spawning colors. A variety of offerings such as spoons, spinners, streamer flies and the tried-and-true wabbler spoon with a worm will work for Fall brook trout. Please remember, the use of baitfish is prohibited, and the season closes on October 15 for Adirondack brook trout ponds. For more details, check out the I FISH NY Guide to Brook Trout Fishing in Adirondack Ponds.

The time has come to begin preparing your tackle for Fall trout fishing opportunities in the Adirondacks. The window of opportunity between the hot summer months and the close of the traditional trout season can be short, but the fishing can be fantastic.

Resources to help find a place to fish in the Adirondacks:
Eastern Adirondacks Places to Fish
Western Adirondacks Places to Fish
DEC HuntFishNY Tackle Box Mobile App
DECinfo Locator - Interactive Trout Stream Fishing Map (best viewed on Desktop computer - select "Trout Streams" and "Trout Stream Fishing Access" layers)