Your Fresh Air Adventure turns into a Fresh Water Adventure
One of the best parts of the warming weather in April and May is the arrival of fishing season! From fly fishing to deep water fishing, your Fresh Air Adventure is full of waterways to explore in search of that next great catch (or your next great fishing story).
New York hosts several Free Fishing Days throughout the year where no fishing license is required to throw a line in the fresh waterways throughout the state. Upcoming free fishing days include June 26 – 27. The Dewitt Recreation Area in Genesee County hosts a special open fishing day on June 26, perfect for beginners.
Stream Fishing
Nothing beats the feeling of fresh air gently blowing down the stream as you cast your line and wait for the next bite. Many of the waterways that run through our region are available for public fishing for fly fishing or reel fishing.
The New York DEC stocks many of the streams with fish ahead of fishing season. Find a map of the stocked waterways or browse all of them by name and location. Catch-and-release fishing is standard here to preserve the integrity of the fish population and ensure quality fishing experience for future anglers. For a true local experience, consider booking a guided fly-fishing trip.
The WAG Trail runs through Allegany County, following an old railroad route along the upper Genesee River. Naturally abundant with a variety of fish species, the trail is a fishing hot spot with 9 miles of multi-use trails and public fishing areas.
The NY DEC stocks Cattaraugus Creek with brown trout and wild brown trout and wild rainbow trout are common catches. The creek is split between Wyoming County and the Seneca Nation of Indians Reservation, though there is plenty of public fishing land in the Wyoming County areas. A special permit is required for fishing on the Reservation.
Cryder Creek flows through Allegany County into the Genesee River and has over 5 miles of public fishing land. The Pennsylvania DEC keeps these waters well stocked with brown trout, though other common catches include carp and brook trout.
The East Koy Creek flows through Wyoming and Allegany County with over 13 miles of public fishing land. Brook trout are commonly caught and it’s stocked annually with brown trout by the NY DEC.
The Genesee River ranks as one of the biggest rivers in New York and has some of the most fertile waters to fish in. The New York DEC stocks over 200,000 fish annually, including Chinook Salmon, Rainbow Trout and Coho Salmon. With 18 miles of public fishing, you’re sure to hook something!
Located in Livingston County, Newville Creek is stocked annually with brown trout. Fishing here is on private land that’s been opened to the public.
Beginning in the Oak Orchard swamps in Genesee County, the river winds its way through Orleans County and empties into Lake Ontario at Point Breeze, the 2013 Ultimate Fishing Town, a designated safe harbor and home to 7 marinas. A popular fishing spot is at "The Bridges", formed by prominent tributary, Marsh Creek and offers exceptional fishing. Common catches include brown trout, rainbow trout, chinook and coho salmon.
Running through Genesee County, Oatka Creek is known for its wild brown trout which is supplemented through a stocked fishery by the NY DEC. Other common catches include black bass or northern pike.
Located in Livingston County, Sugar Creek is stocked annually with brown trout on private land that’s been opened to the public exclusively for fishing.
Located in Genesee County, this creek is not stocked by the DEC but home to a native population of perch and brook trout. You can drop a line in by the Batavia Peace Gardens for an idyllic view while you fish.
Running through Wyoming and Allegany County, Wiscoy Creek has over 14 miles of public fishing. Common catches here include wild brown trout as well as wild brook trout.
Charter Fishing in Deep Water
Western NY is known for our trout and salmon fishing, particularly in Lake Ontario. Steelhead, chinook salmon, coho salmon and brown trout are abundant here, thanks to deep, cold waters.
A chartered fishing boat is the perfect way to experience the best fishing your Fresh Air Adventure has to offer. An experienced local guide will provide the top-of-the-line equipment and take you to the hot spots for the best chance at that once-in-a-lifetime catch. Several businesses even offer taxidermy services so you can preserve your catch forever.
Browse all charter fishing boats or rent your own boat with a stay at the Captain’s Cove Motel & Marina.
Fishing Supply Stores
Need to stock up on equipment or just grab some bait before you head out? We’ve got you covered. Not sure where to start? Our fishing experts recommend Tenkara fly rods, a Japanese-style reel-less rods that work perfectly for beginner anglers in small streams. These light-weight rods pack down for travels, and can be found at our fishing supply stores.
Your resource for Western NY trout and salmon fishing, Oak Orchard provides fishing supplies, guidance and lodging for those looking to have the ultimate fishing experience.
Serving the fishing community since 1965, Narby’s is your one-stop-shop for everything you need. Tucked away in Point Breeze, you’ll find licenses, fishing supplies, bait, outdoor apparel, hunting supplies, groceries and gas. Named the 2013 Ultimate Fishing Town, Point Breeze is a small inlet town of Lake Ontario, at the forefront of the fishing action.
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