Black River Fishing – Locations, Species and Seasonal Tips

The Black River’s fishing landscape is made up of a 125-mile river flowing from the Adirondacks to Eastern Lake Ontario through Herkimer, Lewis, and Jefferson Counties. It is fed by tributaries like Moose River, Beaver River, and Sugar River, enhancing its ecological variety.

Key Fishing Locations:

Black River Bay

Black River Bay is located at the mouth of the Black River as it flows into Lake Ontario. This bay creates a natural, sheltered area, which is less susceptible to the rougher conditions of the open lake.

Walleye Fishing: Black River Bay This bay is particularly known for its excellent walleye fishing, especially during the spring spawning season and again in the fall. Walleyes are often found in deeper areas of the bay, where they feed on smaller fish.

Perch and Bass: Along with walleye, Black River Bay is a prime spot for yellow perch and both smallmouth and largemouth bass. The structure and vegetation along the shoreline and in shallower parts of the bay provide ideal habitats for these species.

Access Points: There are multiple access points for both boat and shore anglers around Black River Bay, including public boat launches and areas where shoreline fishing is accessible.

Black River Inlet

The Black River Inlet is where the Black River flows into Lake Ontario. This area is characterized by a mix of fresh river water and lake water, creating a unique ecosystem.

Salmon and Steelhead: The inlet is particularly known for salmon and steelhead, especially during their respective spawning runs in the spring and fall. Anglers often find success fishing for these species from both boat and shore.

Diverse Species: Besides salmon and steelhead, the inlet is home to a variety of other species, including pike, bass, and panfish, offering a well-rounded fishing experience.

Scenic Fishing Location: The Black River Inlet provides a scenic backdrop for fishing, making it a favorite spot for those who appreciate both the sport and the outdoor environment.

Boating and Navigation: The inlet offers deeper waters that are navigable for larger boats, allowing fishermen to explore different fishing spots where the river meets the lake.

South Lake

Located in Herkimer County near Atwell NY, South Lake covers 499 acres and has high acid content. It’s known for shallow bays with large boulders and is stocked annually with brook trout and brown trout. It is also home to a nice population of brown bullheads. On South Lake, Shore Fishing is best.

North Lake

Situated in Herkimer County, North Lake encompasses 442 acres. It offers similar fishing opportunities to South Lake, with brook trout being a common catch. North Lake forms part of the river system but lacks practical canoeing options. Like South Lake, shore fishing is a good option. Access is limited at Reeds Mill and Enos but is available at Crandall Falls and lower Black Creek.

North Lake to Kayuta Lake

Dominated by brook trout, shore fishing is your best option along this 17 mile stretch due to its shallow nature.

Kayuta Lake

This lake, spanning 474 acres (5.3 miles), is found in Oneida County. Kayuta Lake fishing options include chain pickerel, rock bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead. Boat ramps are available at the upper end at the KOA (fee required) and near the dam (free access).

Forestport Reservoir

This 101 acre (1.4 mile) section is great for fishing smallmouth bass, rock bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead. A boat ramp at the dam provides access, with special fishing opportunities in the bay where Woodhull Creek enters.

Forestport to Denley Dam

In Lewis County, this section of the Black River, is known for trout fishing, including brown trout and rainbow trout, as well as smallmouth bass and rock bass. At just over 13 miles long, it is stocked with trout. Fly fishing is favored at Norton Road. Access points are available along Edmond Road and at bridges in Hawkinsville, Camp Road, Norton Road, and River Road.

Denley Dam to Lyons Falls

Hosting brown trout, rainbow trout, rock bass, and smallmouth bass, this six mile section requires portaging around dams including the three dams in Port Leyden. Above the Lyons Falls Waterfall, you will find a park with picnic areas and shore fishing access.

Lyons Falls to Independence River

In Lewis County, this section of the river is dominated by walleye, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, northern pike, brown bullhead, and rock bass. Access is available at Lyons Falls itself, the water treatment lagoon, and near the bridge to Greig (Burdicks Landing) as well as near the and at other sites downstream.

Independence River to Beaver River

Species in this low gradient section of the Black River are the same as the Lyons Falls to Independence River section. Access points are located at bridges in Lowville, Dadville, and Castorland.

Beaver River to Carthage

Offers good fishing for walleye, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, northern pike, brown bullhead, and rock bass. Access can be found at the convergence of the Deer River and the black River, near the Carthage Road and Gun Club South Of Carthage. Babcock Campgrounds in Loweville offers 75 campsites along the Black River.

Carthage to Felts Mills

This 13 mile is home to walleye, chain pickerel, northern pike, smallmouth bass, rock bass, and yellow perch. Access is available at various points, including the West Carthage Sewage Treatment Plant, Jackson II Road, Deferiet Dam, and Herrings Dam.

Felts Mills to Huntingtonville at Route 3

A prime 7.5 mile location for walleye, chain pickerel, northern pike, smallmouth bass, rock bass, and yellow perch. Access is available at Huntingtonville. Portage paths are indicated at dam locations.

Huntingtonville to Watertown

This 2 mile section is suitable for canoeing and is known for smallmouth bass, walleye, chain pickerel, and northern pike.

Watertown to Dexter (Mill Street)

7.5 mile section of the Black River renowned for salmon and steelhead fishing near VanDuzee Bridge where brown trout are stocked annually. The area also has smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, rock bass, and yellow perch. Upstream of the dam near Dexter, there is good fishing access to the river.

Dexter to Lake Ontario

This final 1.5 mile stretch to Lake Ontario includes salmon, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, brown bullhead, and channel catfish. Boat ramp access is available downstream of Route 12E. Canoeing is enjoyable in bays such as Perch River, Chaumont River, and Muskellunge Creek.

Find other NY fishing hotspots.

Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (April-May)

Steelhead Trout: The river’s upper regions teem with steelhead trout. Key techniques include drift fishing with spawn bags or crankbaits near gravel beds, and fly fishing in faster currents.

Brook and Brown Trout: Also active in spring, these species can be targeted in the cooler, faster-flowing upper sections of the river.

Summer (June-August):

Smallmouth Bass: Predominant in the lower river. Anglers use topwater lures and soft plastics around structures for exciting catches.

Walleye: Fish deeper channels and cooler waters using bottom-bouncing rigs and live bait for effective results.

Fall (September-October)

Chinook Salmon: Their migration upriver presents a thrilling challenge. Effective techniques include casting large, bright lures or using deep-diving plugs near obstructions.

Northern Pike: As temperatures drop, pike become more active, especially in weed-lined bays and around tributary mouths.

Winter (December-March):

Ice Fishing: Predominantly for walleye and perch in Black River Bay. Tip-ups baited with minnows and jigging with small spoons are effective in this season.

Northern Pike: Under the ice, pike can be targeted with larger lures and live bait in deeper sections.

What Black River is Known

The Black River is celebrated for its smallmouth bass, especially in the warmer lower stretches. Trout fishing in its upper reaches is equally popular, attracting fly fishermen with its seasonal hatches. The river’s ecological diversity is a result of its unique course and the influence of Lake Ontario, offering habitats for various species like walleye, pike, and elusive muskie.

Popular boat ramps, boat launches, marinas, and public access points

Wellesley Island State Park: A popular starting point for fishing expeditions, offering full-fledged boat launching facilities.

Eel Weir Campground: A quieter launch site, perfect for those seeking a more secluded fishing experience.

Tibbetts Island Boat Launch: Accesses deeper, less-explored sections, making it ideal for experienced anglers.

Black River and Related Articles

Cast and Blast – Black River Valley Fishing and Hunting

Canoe and Kayak “Cast and Blast” Adventures Just as the first light of dawn began to break, I cast my line into the river. Mist rose off the water, and the air

Black River Fishing FAQs

What tackle is best for Black River fishing?

Depending on the season and target species, anglers typically use medium-light to medium-heavy rods, with appropriate reels and line weights. Lures vary from spinners and jigs to live bait and flies.

Can families enjoy fishing on the Black River?

Absolutely! The river offers many family-friendly fishing spots, with opportunities for teaching young anglers the basics of fishing.

Are there guided fishing tours available on Black River?

Yes, several local guides offer tours, providing expertise and equipment for a memorable fishing experience.

What Kind of Fish Are in the Black River in NY?

The Black River in NY is home to a diverse range of fish species. Anglers can find smallmouth bass, especially in the lower sections near Watertown. The river also hosts walleye, known for their challenging catch and great taste. Northern pike and muskie, both sought for their size and fight, are present as well. Additionally, trout species, including brown and brook trout, are common in the upper reaches of the river, offering excellent opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts.

Is There Salmon in Black River NY?

Yes, the Black River in NY does see runs of salmon, particularly chinook salmon. These fish are known to migrate upriver, especially in the fall season. They are typically found in areas with fast-moving currents and are a popular target for anglers during their spawning runs. The best time to fish for salmon in the Black River is usually in the fall months, especially near dams and fast-flowing sections.

What Kind of Fish Is in the Black River in Watertown NY?

In Watertown, NY, the Black River is particularly known for its smallmouth bass fishing. This section of the river provides ideal habitats with rocky structures and weed beds where smallmouth bass thrive. Additionally, anglers in Watertown can also find walleye and northern pike in the Black River, offering a variety of fishing experiences.

Can You Eat Fish out of the Black River NY?

Yes, you can eat fish caught from the Black River in NY, but it’s important to follow the New York State Department of Health guidelines. These guidelines provide information on the safe consumption of fish from various water bodies, including the Black River. They often suggest limiting consumption of certain fish species or specific size ranges due to potential environmental contaminants. Always check the latest advisories and recommendations to ensure safe and healthy consumption of fish from the Black River.

How deep is Black River?

The depth of the Black River in New York State varies along its course, but it can reach depths of up to 60 feet in some sections. This variation is influenced by factors such as the river’s topography, the presence of dams and natural river bends, and the amount of rainfall or snowmelt feeding the river. In areas where the river widens, such as near estuaries or bays, the depth can be more significant, while in the upper reaches, especially in narrower and faster-flowing sections, it tends to be shallower.

List of online source references

Tug Hill Commission – Black River Watershed
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry – Adirondack Ecological Center
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry – Adirondack Ecological Center

Your NY Fishing Newsletter

FishNY is recognized as New York’s best fishing website. Once dubbed as “the clearing house for fishing content throughout the state” by the Times Union in Albany…