The mighty Niagara River joins two Great Lakes – Ontario and Erie – and the Erie Canal affords other fishing opportunities, which is why Niagara Falls USA is globally recognized for its fishing. The fishing landscape can be separated into four distinct fishing regions. Review each region below so you can plan your fishing trip and bring the right gear:
- Falls Region Fishing: The area above Niagara Falls has shallower water featuring warm water fish like bass and muskellunge.
- River Region Fishing: The Niagara River, carrying the water from the upper four Great Lakes, is the lifeblood for a host of fish species that call Niagara their home, including salmon, trout, bass, muskie, walleye and more. Fishing activities below Niagara Falls exist 365 days a year, with some of the best trout fishing in the world taking place during the late fall, winter and early spring.
- Lake Region Fishing: Lake Ontario offers up one of the finest trout and salmon fisheries on the Great Lakes. Winning LOC Derby fish routinely come from the famous Niagara Bar, and in 2014, all three Grand Prize catches came from Niagara USA – the first time that’s ever been accomplished!
- Canal Region Fishing: The Erie Canal is a blossoming recreational waterway that’s underrated by many. While it’s most noted for boating and its historic value, fishing can be very good for warm water fish species like pike, bass, carp and panfish.
Whether you hire a charter captain, bring your own boat or fish from shore, Niagara Falls USA offers options for every level of experience. If you’re land bound, you’ll find great shore fishing in the Niagara Gorge, Burt Dam and the lower portion of 18 Mile Creek.