Fishing Lake Ontario Tributaries Seasonal Tips, Records & Access

The interconnected web of Lake Ontario’s tributaries provides crucial spawning grounds for chinook salmon, rainbow trout, brown trout, coho salmon, and Atlantic salmon. These species, stocked into the lake, embark on an annual migration to the tributaries for spawning, attracting anglers seeking both the challenge of catching these prized fish and the breathtaking natural spectacle of the migration.

Popular tributaries for salmon fishing include the Genesee River, Sandy Creek, Oak Orchard Creek, Eighteen Mile Creek, Lower Niagara River, Oswego River, North and South Sandy Pond, and the Black River. These tributaries, each with its unique characteristics, draw anglers from near and far during the salmon and trout runs. Additionally, major watersheds such as the Salmon River, Oak Orchard Creek, and Irondequoit Creek contribute to the overall health and vitality of Lake Ontario’s fishery.

Lake Ontario, bordered by counties and towns in New York and Ontario, Canada, is a hub for anglers seeking to capitalize on the rich fishing opportunities offered by these tributaries. Notable towns and cities such as Olcott, NY, Wolcott, NY, Rochester, NY, Mexico, NY, Oswego, NY, Pulaski, NY, Sackets Harbor, NY, Watertown, NY, Kingston ON, Oshawa, Toronto, ON, Mississauga, ON, Oakville, ON, Burlington, ON, Hamilton, ON, and St. Catharines, ON are among those that dot the shoreline, providing access points for anglers eager to explore the renowned salmon and trout fisheries.

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What are tributaries and what are they important to Lake Ontario? 

Tributaries, also known as affluents, are smaller rivers or streams that “feed” a larger body of water like Lake Ontario. The point where they meet the lake is called the confluence, and the main body receiving their flow is the mainstem. These freshwater arteries play a vital role in Lake Ontario’s well-being by:

• Replenishing water levels: During dry periods, tributaries ensure the lake maintains its healthy volume.
• Delivering nutrients: They carry vital nutrients and sediments that nourish the lake’s ecosystem, supporting diverse plant and animal life.
• Providing critical habitat: Lake Ontario’s tributaries serve as spawning grounds and nurseries for numerous fish species, ensuring Lake Ontario’s fish population thrives.
• Enhancing fishing opportunities: Lake Ontario’s tributaries offer fantastic fishing opportunities throughout the year.

Best Lake Ontario Tributaries For Fishing

Let’s explore some of the major tributaries that make Lake Ontario a fisherman’s paradise:

• Niagara River (New York/Ontario): Famed for the mighty Niagara Falls, this behemoth offers world-class salmon and trout fishing, especially during spring and fall migrations.
• Oswego River (New York): A haven for steelhead, brown trout, and Chinook salmon, particularly during spring runs driven by the release of hatchery fish.
• Trent River (Ontario): This extensive system delivers fish species including bass, walleye, and even muskellunge, depending on the specific tributary.
• Genesee River (New York): Known for its salmon and trout runs, the Genesee River offers year-round fishing with distinct seasonal peaks.
• Black River (New York): Salmon and steelhead reign supreme in this tributary, attracting anglers during spring and fall runs.
• Salmon River (New York): A premier salmonid fishery, it draws crowds for its incredible runs of Chinook, steelhead, and brown trout.
• Don River (Ontario): Primarily an urban river, it surprisingly offers decent salmon and trout fishing opportunities, especially during fall runs.
• Credit River (Ontario): Salmon, trout, and even bass can be found in the Credit River providing convenient fishing close to major cities.
• Humber River (Ontario): This urban tributary offers surprising salmon and trout fishing, particularly during fall runs near the lake.
• Rouge River (Ontario): Salmon and trout enthusiasts flock to this river during fall runs, offering a convenient urban fishing option.
• Eighteen Mile Creek (New York): A popular steelhead and brown trout fishery, particularly during spring and fall runs.
• Sandy Creek (New York): Known for its salmon and trout, especially during spring and fall runs, though smaller than some other tributaries.
• Oak Orchard Creek (New York): Steelhead and brown trout dominate this fishery, with peak seasons in spring and fall.
• Little Sandy Creek (New York): This smaller tributary harbors a dedicated following for its steelhead and brown trout fishing, especially during spring runs.
• Irondequoit Creek (New York): While smaller, it offers decent steelhead and brown trout fishing, particularly during spring and fall runs.

Remember: Fishing regulations and seasons vary for each tributary and species. Always check for updated regulations before heading out.

Seasonal Fishing Techniques

Spring (April – June)

Spring on Lake Ontario and its tributaries heralds the commencement of an exhilarating fishing season, particularly for salmon and brown trout enthusiasts. As April unfolds, the salmon fishing season gains momentum, reaching its pinnacle from late July to early September. 

During this window, salmon actively feed in anticipation of their spawning season, presenting an optimal opportunity for anglers. Brown and lake trout also flourish during spring, with the lake’s shorelines and tributary mouths transforming into prime fishing grounds. 

For those targeting brown trout, simple spinning or trolling setups prove effective. Lake trout, known for their impressive sizes, thrive in the colder waters of Lake Ontario. Casting lures close to the bottom is a proven tactic, making Lake Ontario a welcoming environment for novice anglers to refine their skills.

Summer (July – September)

Summer on Lake Ontario presents fantastic opportunities for anglers, particularly those with a passion for salmon fishing. The salmon peak season, extending into early September grants ample time for enthusiasts to pursue these prized catches. As the season progresses, the focus shifts to the lake’s tributaries, offering a dynamic and diverse fishing experience.

While trolling and casting near the lake’s surface are effective techniques during the initial peak season, transitioning to the tributaries opens up new possibilities. In the summertime, when the fish are in deeper water, trolling remains a viable option. However, as the salmon move into the lake’s tributaries, anglers can explore alternative methods such as drift fishing, fly fishing, or spinning.

Lake Ontario isn’t just home to salmon; it also boasts significant populations of brown and lake trout. For anglers seeking a trophy catch, lake trout in the impressive 30–40 pound range are a common occurrence. It’s worth noting that larger lake trout are often released for conservation reasons, contributing to the sustainability of the fishery.

As summer progresses, keep an eye out for coho salmon and, less frequently, Atlantic Salmon. The tributaries become vital areas for fishing success, providing a unique environment for various techniques. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of salmon fishing or prefer the more relaxed pursuit of trout, Lake Ontario in the summer promises a diverse and rewarding fishing experience.

Fall (October – November)

Fall on Lake Ontario witnesses a surge in fishing activity, particularly for salmon enthusiasts. As salmon begin their journey back to spawning grounds, October and November present a favorable window for Lake Ontario Tributary fishing. 

Precision becomes essential during this period, with planer boards and j-plugs replacing downriggers to adapt to the evolving behavior of salmon heading towards the tributary mouth. Trolling remains a key technique, enhanced with attractors like flashers and dodgers to align with salmon’s dynamic feeding patterns before spawning.

Amidst the salmon focus, trout fishing continues to be rewarding. Brown and lake trout maintain healthy populations, with productive areas including shorelines and tributary mouths for brown trout and colder waters for lake trout. 

Adjusting lure depth, experimenting with bait colors, and trolling with downriggers are effective strategies for targeting trout. Fall on Lake Ontario offers prime conditions for anglers to capitalize on the salmon run and enjoy fruitful trout fishing amidst the vibrant autumn scenery.

Winter (December – March)

Winter can be fruitful on Lake Ontario for methods such as ice fishing, offering a unique but equally exciting angling experience. While the lake is known for its salmon and trout seasons, winter brings opportunities for a variety of species in the tributaries such as walleye, northern pike, and bluegill. 

However, anglers should be aware of seasonal regulations, such as those in Little Sandy Creek (one of Lake Ontario’s tributaries) in Oswego County. Fishing is prohibited from March 16 to April 30 in this area. Overall, winter fishing on Lake Ontario tributaries can yield catches of different species, providing a unique and challenging adventure for those who brave the cold temperatures.

What are Lake Ontario Tributaries Known For?

Fishing in the Lake Ontario tributaries, especially the Salmon River in Oswego County, is celebrated for its outstanding fishing achievements, drawing in fishermen from surrounding states. One notable achievement is the New York State Lake Ontario chinook salmon record, weighing an impressive 47 pounds 13 ounces. 

This record was set by a skilled fisherman named John Smith in the year 2018. The salmon was an extraordinary catch, measuring 42 inches in length. As of the latest available information, this record still stands, highlighting the exceptional fishing opportunities that Lake Ontario and its tributaries offer.

In addition to remarkable fishing accomplishments in the Ontario Tributaries, the local history of these waterways is rich with angling traditions. The tributaries, including the Salmon River, Niagara River, Oak Orchard Creek, and Irondequoit Creek, contribute to the vibrant fishing culture in the region. Anglers from both Canada and the United States are drawn to the diverse species inhabiting these waters, with salmon being a particular highlight.

Apart from fishing, the local communities around Lake Ontario thrives with a variety of activities, events, restaurants, and festivals. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

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

Lake Ontario is adorned with numerous tributaries, each offering unique opportunities for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Among the prominent contributors to Lake Ontario’s diverse ecosystem, three main tributaries stand out: the Salmon River, Oak Orchard Creek, and Irondequoit Creek. 

The Salmon River, with its expansive 639-mile watershed, is coveted for those seeking memorable fishing experiences. Public access points and boat ramps are strategically placed along the river, offering convenient entry and exit for anglers and boaters alike. 

Particularly noteworthy are the areas below the dam, where Trout Brook and Orwell Brook enter the river, attracting migrating salmon and trout. Public launches along the Salmon River provide opportunities for boaters to navigate its winding course. Whether casting a line or cruising the waters, the Salmon River promises an adventure-rich experience.

Oak Orchard Creek, a major tributary to Lake Ontario, beckons anglers and boaters to its scenic waters. The key access point is situated at Point Breeze, NY, at the mouth of Oak Orchard Creek. Travelers from Rochester, NY, can conveniently reach this location by taking US Rte. 104 west to NYS Route 98 north. 

Once there, public access points for fishing and boating await enthusiasts. The creek’s diverse fish population, including brown trout, rainbow trout (steelhead), and salmon, ensures an exciting experience for those fishing Oak Orchard Creek.

Irondequoit Creek, with its substantial 316-mile watershed, offers a unique setting for fishing and boating. Access to Irondequoit Creek is facilitated through the parking lot at Channing H. Philbrick Park, located on Linear Park Road, off Route 441 (Penfield Rd.) in Penfield, NY. 

This access point provides opportunities for both fishing and boating, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the creek. The geographic reference point for Irondequoit Creek is the Philbrick Park area in Penfield.