Fish Species and Seasonal Tips for Fishing Eighteen 18 Mile Creek In Niagara County NY

18 Mile Creek, also known as Eighteen Mile Creek, meanders through the scenic landscape of Western New York State, offers a captivating fishing experience for enthusiasts. A Lake Ontario Tributary, 18 Mile Creek originates just north of the City of Lockport in Olcott Harbor. This waterway spans approximately 26 miles northward, winding through the Town of Newfane.

The mouth of Eighteen Mile Creek marks a notable location, contributing to the natural beauty of the surrounding counties, towns, and villages. While the park’s landscape is characterized by a 60-foot-deep gorge cut by the creek, the majority of the park’s land above the gorge and between the two branches of the creek is flat, creating a diverse and dynamic fishing environment.

18 Mile Creek is renowned for its diverse fish population, offering anglers the chance to target a variety of species. The creek hosts runs of chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, brown trout, and the occasional Atlantic salmon.

Smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, rock bass, and largemouth bass are also among the common catches in these waters. The mix of migratory and resident species makes Eighteen Mile Creek an attractive destination for anglers seeking a range of fishing experiences, from the thrill of pursuing salmon runs to the challenge of landing bass in its varied waters.

Other NY fishing hotspots

Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species:

Spring (March to May)

As spring graces 18 Mile Creek, anglers eagerly anticipate the spawning season from March to May, attracting a multitude of brown trout enthusiasts. During this period, the creek offers prime conditions for anglers to target brown trout, with ideal water temperatures and an abundance of fish.

Traditional fishing methods such as dry fly and nymph fishing are commonly employed. The spring also witnesses a rise in insect activity, prompting anglers to utilize imitations of hatches for a successful catch. Steelhead runs are prevalent throughout the winter, making them an additional target during this season.

Summer (June to July)

Transitioning into the summer months, particularly June to July, 18 Mile Creek presents opportunities for anglers to explore deeper spots or cooler areas targeting smallmouth bass. The strategic choice of fishing times, such as early morning or late at night on cloudy days, enhances the likelihood of a successful catch.

Although summer isn’t the peak of the spawning season, the creek still offers diverse opportunities for anglers. Anglers often employ various methods and baits to entice smallmouth bass in these different conditions.

Fall (August to November)

In fall at Eighteen Mile Creek, the focus is on the exciting world of fishing. From September to November, the angling community eagerly anticipates the arrival of Chinook salmon, creating a thrilling spectacle. Avid anglers are drawn to the opportunity of hooking these prized fish during their seasonal migration.

The excitement continues in October and November as lake-run brown trout join the scene, providing fly and spinning anglers with exhilarating experiences. The fall season also brings a great run of steelhead, adding another layer of excitement for anglers looking to test their skills. Against the backdrop of vivid foliage and crisp air, fly fishing becomes a popular and effective technique.

Amidst this seasonal bounty, anglers cast their lines with anticipation, skillfully presenting flies to entice chinook salmon, brown trout, and steelhead. The fall at Eighteen Mile Creek not only offers stunning scenery but also promises unforgettable angling adventures for those who partake in the action along this exceptional waterway.

Winter (December to February)

Even in the colder months, 18 Mile Creek maintains its allure for anglers seeking steelhead and brown trout. The creek’s bottom discharge tailwater prevents freezing, allowing for year-round angling.

Winter fishing enthusiasts often target key spots, such as the famous turbine hole and overflow pool at the dam, and a short section below Burt Dam. Despite potential challenges from dingy water caused by heavy rain and melting snow, anglers equipped with the right flies, including nymphs and egg imitations, continue to find success.

Nymph fishing techniques, the use of strike indicators, and drift egg flies are prevalent methods employed during winter fly fishing expeditions at Eighteen Mile Creek.

What 18 Mile Creek is Known For

18 Mile Creek is a fishing hotspot for anglers in Western NY, with one remarkable record etched into its fishing history. Benjamin LaDuca achieved a feat that echoes through time—a 15-pound, 31-inch brown trout captured at Olcott, NY. This impressive catch underscores the creek’s diverse ecosystem, featuring Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and occasional Atlantic salmon.

Beyond its fishing allure, 18 Mile Creek stands as a vibrant ecosystem, teeming with an impressive array of salmon and trout. Each fall, these fish embark on a journey from Lake Ontario, navigating upstream into the creek. This natural spectacle is enriched by the arrival of steelhead, which enter the creek both in the fall and late February through April.

Adequate water levels are supported by contributions from the New York State Barge Canal. This allows the Creek to accommodate a variety of recreational activities including fishing and boating. During canal operations, water is strategically released into the creek’s East and West Branches, ensuring a steady flow.

The community around 18 Mile Creek offers diverse activities, local flavors, and heritage celebrations. Whether fishing, hiking, or joining festivities, it promises an enriching experience.

Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points.

18 Mile Creek offers prime access points for anglers eager to explore its waters. The Burt Dam, conveniently accessible off Route 78, serves as a popular entry spot, featuring a parking lot and trails leading to the water.

Below the dam, anglers can find excellent fishing opportunities, though caution is advised due to dynamic water conditions. The creek’s shallow and tumultuous nature makes it ideal for wading and shoreline casting rather than boating.

To reach 18 Mile Creek, travelers can take Route 78 from the south or Route 18 from the east or west, both routes leading directly into Olcott. Additional access points along Route 78, heading south through Burt and Newfane, offer options for anglers, albeit with potential parking limitations.

The creek welcomes public access, but anglers should be aware of specific regulations during certain seasons, ensuring compliance when planning their trips.