Upper and Lower Niagara River Fishing – Seasons, Articles, Species and Tips
The Niagara River, flowing 36 miles (58 km) from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, serves as a prominent and diverse fishing destination. This majestic waterway encompasses a vast basin size of 264,000 square miles (684,000 square kilometers) and plays host to a myriad of fish species throughout the year.
Fisherman can target chinook salmon, coho salmon, northern pike, rainbow trout, and walleye, making the Niagara River a hub for charter fishing boat trips. The river also offers excellent chances to catch lake trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, musky, yellow perch, and smelt at various times of the year, showcasing the remarkable fishing diversity that the region has to offer.
With an average elevation of 569 ft (173.43 meters) at Lake Erie and 243 ft (74.1 meters) at Lake Ontario, this waterway is an important connection to the broader Great Lakes system.
Cities and towns adjacent to Niagara Falls are, starting on the US side in the North and moving clockwise, Youngstown, NY, Lewiston, NY, Niagara Falls, NY, Grand Island, NY, North Tonawanda, NY, Tonawanda, NY, Kenmore, NY, and Buffalo, NY. These towns and cities are located in Niagara County and Erie County, New York.
On the Canadian side, beginning at the south end of the Niagara River and moving clockwise are Fort Erie, ON, the Neighborhood of Douglastown, ON, Niagara Falls, ON, and Niagara-On-The-Lake, ON. These locations are in the Canadian province of Ontario.
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Upper Niagara River
Before the Niagara River plunges over Niagara Falls, it peacefully flows north for 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Lake Erie. This calmer section has a unique character, with average water speeds of 2 to 3 ft/second (0.6 to 0.9 meters per second) and a wider expanse reaching up to 4,000 ft (1220 meters).
The depth of the Upper Niagara River varies throughout its length, but it generally ranges from 17 feet (5.2 meters) at its shallowest point near the Peace Bridge to 50 feet (15.2 meters) below the Chippawa-Grass Island Pool control structure. Here’s a breakdown of the depth in different sections:
- Buffalo Harbor to Peace Bridge: 17 feet (5.2 meters)
- Peace Bridge to Chippawa Channel: Varies depending on location, but generally deeper than 17 feet (5.2 meters)
- Chippawa Channel: Minimum depth of 10 feet (3 meters) below Chart Datum
- Tonawanda Channel: Deepened to 21 feet (6.4 meters) to Niagara Falls
- Chippawa-Grass Island Pool: Shallow and wide, around 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) wide, but not as deep as other sections
Near Grand Island, the river splits into two channels: the American Channel, facilitating shipping with its 12-foot minimum depth, and the Canadian Channel, offering scenic vistas and wildlife encounters.
Kayaking enthusiasts can tackle the calmer Whirlpool Rapids, while Grand Island provides recreational activities and the Niagara Parks Botanical Garden showcases stunning flora.
Lower Niagara River – Below The Falls
The Lower Niagara River stands out as a year-round fishing hotspot. Its appeal lies in the diverse opportunities it presents across different seasons. The lower Niagara River flows from the base of Niagara Falls north to Lake Ontario. It is about 22 miles (35 kilometers) long and has a drop of about 100 feet (30 meters).
Below Niagara Falls, the Lower Niagara River transforms into a dynamic spectacle. This stretch is a thrilling mix of churning rapids, deep canyons, and powerful currents. Unlike the Upper Niagara, the lower river moves fast with an average speed of 8 to 10 ft per second (2.5 to 3 meters per second), creating an adrenaline-fueled playground for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Fishing on the Lower Niagara River provides opportunities for salmon and trout fishing, with chinook, coho, steelhead, and brown trout making their seasonal runs (migrations) upstream. Spring and fall witness peak activity, as these powerful fish battle their way towards spawning grounds. Fishermen line the shores and board charter boats, casting their lines with the hope of landing a trophy trout.
The American Rapids and Whirlpool Rapids are prime Niagara River fishing spots, while Devil’s Hole State Park provides scenic access to the river’s edge. Regulations vary depending on the species and season, so ensuring compliance is crucial. Remember, the Lower Niagara River demands respect and preparation, but for skilled anglers, the rewards are well worth the challenge.
Similar to the Upper Niagara River, the depth of the Lower Niagara River also varies throughout its length. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated depths in different sections:
- Niagara Falls (Horseshoe Falls plunge pool): 170 feet (52 meters) – This is the deepest point in the entire Niagara River system.
- Niagara Gorge: 50 to 125 feet (15.2 to 38.1 meters) – The depth varies significantly due to the rugged terrain and rapids.
- Whirlpool: Up to 125 feet (38.1 meters) – The deepest part of the whirlpool basin.
- Lower Niagara River (below Whirlpool Rapids): 40 to 70 feet (12.2 to 21.3 meters) – The depth gradually decreases as the river flows towards Lake Ontario.
- Lake Ontario: Average depth of 243 feet (74 meters)
Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species
Spring (March to May)
In the spring, the Niagara River fishing offers a diverse array of opportunities. Anglers primarily fish for chinook salmon, coho salmon, and steelhead during this time. As an alternative, brown trout, lake trout, and walleye can also be pursued.
Early spring is ideal for walleye fishing in both the Upper and Lower River sections, while late spring sees a focus on chinook and coho salmon in the Lower River. Steelhead fishing becomes prominent during this period, with anglers using pink egg sacs for bait below the falls.
Techniques such as trolling for salmon and walleye, drift fishing for steelhead, and casting from shore for bass are commonly employed during the spring season.
Summer (June to July)
In the summer months, fishing in the Niagara River remains active. While chinook and coho salmon fishing may taper off, other species like bass, walleye, and trout continue to provide excitement. Lake trout fishing is also notable during the summer emerald shiner run.
Bass fishing, particularly smallmouth bass, becomes more prevalent in the Upper River during summer. Anglers can also target walleye, especially near Fort Niagara where the river meets Lake Ontario.
Trolling and drift boat fishing are effective techniques for catching walleye, particularly with worm harnesses during the summer months. The slower waters of the Upper River offer excellent opportunities for bass fishing, where anglers can explore weed beds, ledges, and deep holes.
Additionally, shore fishing remains a popular option, allowing anglers to cast upstream and let their lines drift downstream naturally. Various spots along the river, including Whirlpool State Park and Devil’s Hole State Park, offer productive fishing spot for a variety of species during the summer fishing season.
Fall (August to November)
In the fall, fishing the Niagara River offers a diverse experience. Anglers can target primary species like chinook salmon, steelhead, brown trout, and lake trout, with alternatives including walleye, bass, perch, northern pike, and musky.
Early fall is conducive for chinook salmon and steelhead fishing in the Lower River, and later in the season, the focus shifts to brown and lake trout fishing. Transitioning to the Upper River presents excellent opportunities for smallmouth bass fishing. Additionally, walleye fishing remains productive throughout the fall months.
Winter (December to February)
In the winter months, the Niagara River provides unique opportunities for cold-weather fishing. Anglers can target primary species such as steelhead, walleye, and lake trout, along with alternatives like perch, northern pike, and musky.
Winter steelhead fishing in the Niagara River remains consistent from November to May, offering a rewarding experience. Walleye fishing is prominent in both the Upper and Lower River during December to February, with a focus on the areas near Fort Niagara.
Despite fishing restrictions for lake trout from October to December, they become a target during the winter months. Ice fishing has become a common technique, allowing anglers to pursue steelhead, walleye, and lake trout in the colder temperatures.
What is the Niagara River known for?
The Lower Niagara River has gained recognition for Morgan Fonzi’s remarkable fishing accomplishment. Morgan, a resident of Gasport, NY achieved a state record by catching a white bass weighing 3 pounds, 8 ounces.
This impressive catch occurred in early May 2020, solidifying Morgan’s place in fishing history. The record-breaking bass measured a significant length, surpassing the previous record by two ounces.
However, it’s worth noting that Morgan’s father, Joe Fonzi, had also caught and released a sizable white bass on May 4, which would have set a new state record. Despite Morgan’s achievement, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation confirmed that Joe’s catch was even larger.
Nevertheless, Morgan Fonzi’s success showcases the thriving white bass population in the Great Lakes and Niagara River, highlighting the region’s diverse and abundant fishing opportunities.
Furthermore, the river holds a rich historical significance beyond its fishing achievements. The river, forming the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA, has played a pivotal role in various historical events.
Notably, it served as a site for battles during the Seven Years’ War and the American Revolutionary War, with forts such as Fort George and Fort Niagara standing as crucial defense points. Additionally, the Niagara River was a vital route to freedom for enslaved people of African descent seeking escape before the American Civil War
The Freedom Crossing Monument in Lewiston commemorates the courage of escaping slaves and the local volunteers who assisted them in crossing the river to find freedom in Canada.
Apart from its historical significance, the Niagara River is a hub of activity and natural wonders. The river features the iconic Niagara Falls, which has moved approximately 11 kilometers upstream in the last 12,000 years, creating a spectacular gorge below.
Furthermore, the river witnessed significant industrial advancements, becoming the first waterway globally to harness hydroelectricity on a large scale in the 1880s. Power plants on both the Canadian and American sides generate a substantial 4.4 gigawatts of electricity.
The river also contains islands such as Grand Island and Navy Island, along with Goat Island, Luna Island, and Unity Island, contributing to the breathtaking scenery surrounding Niagara Falls.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
The Niagara River, known for its spectacular natural beauty and excellent fishing opportunities, offers a variety of public access points for anglers and boaters. Starting upriver, Whirlpool State Park, situated near the City of Niagara Falls, provides shore access for anglers looking to explore the upper reaches of the river.
The park features trails and steps that descend into the gorge, allowing access to a trail running along the river for over a mile. However, caution is advised due to slippery rocks, water level changes, and strong currents.
Moving downstream, Devil’s Hole State Park, located north of Whirlpool State Park, offers another excellent fishing location with access to the Lower Whirlpool Rapids. Similar to Whirlpool State Park, it requires descending trails and steps into the gorge, posing challenges for those carrying large catches. The area is popular for salmon and steelhead during the fall and winter, as well as smallmouth bass during the summer.
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) fishing platform at the NYPA Power Vista is a popular access site from spring to late fall, providing a universally accessible platform with amenities such as a fish cleaning station and restrooms. A bit downstream, Earl W. Brydges Artpark State Park, located between Lewiston and the NYPA Power Vista, offers over a mile of river shoreline with trails leading to the river’s edge. This location is renowned for quality steelhead fishing from November through April.
Continuing north of Lewiston, Joseph Davis State Park provides shoreline fishing access and a universally accessible fishing platform for anglers with disabilities. Additionally, Lewiston Landing Waterfront Park in Lewiston and Water Street Village Park and Constitution Park in Youngstown offer shore access for anglers.
For boaters, several launch sites are available, including the Village of Lewiston Launch, Village of Youngstown Launch, and Fort Niagara State Park, each providing concrete ramps, parking, and other facilities. These access points cater to anglers targeting a diverse range of species, including salmon, steelhead, bass, walleye, trout, and more.
The Niagara River, divided by the mighty Niagara Falls, offers a unique fishing experience in both its Upper and Lower River sections. Anglers can target a plethora of fish species, including salmon, steelhead, brown and lake trout, walleye, bass, and more. The river’s currents and water levels can be challenging, making it crucial for anglers to exercise caution and adhere to fishing regulations. Whether fishing from shore or launching a boat, the Niagara River provides a dynamic and rewarding environment for anglers seeking adventure and a diverse range of fish species throughout the year.
