Oswego River Fishing Marvels: Seasons, Techniques, and Historic Moments

The Oswego River supports an abundant variety of fish species, attracting fishermen from near and far. The list includes sought-after fish like walleye, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, chinook and coho salmon, rainbow trout, brown trout, sunfish, perch, crappie, catfish, freshwater drum, bowfin, common carp, round goby, and gizzard shad. This diverse ecosystem solidifies the Oswego River’s reputation as a premier fishing spot in Central New York, offering anglers a wide array of options to pursue their favorite catches.

Located in the heart of Central New York’s Oswego County, is a prominent waterway stretching 23 miles from its origin at Three Rivers to its confluence with Lake Ontario in the City of Oswego. Functioning as a vital link connecting the Erie Canal to Lake Ontario, this river boasts a network of eight locks and six dams, contributing significantly to the region’s rich fishing culture.

The Oswego River is formed by the merging of the Oneida River and the Seneca River, adding to its significance as a central hub in the local water system.

Where to fish in New York State

Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species

Spring (March to May)

As spring unfolds on the Oswego River, anglers can capitalize on the diverse range of species available. Anglers fishing for steelhead, a prized catch during this season, find fishing success using egg sacs, egg-imitating plastics, worms, flies, and plugs.

At the river mouth, brown trout concentrate, providing opportunities for trolling stick baits or casting with spoons. Noteworthy is the exciting walleye fishing after dark in May and June, with effective techniques including jig fishing with bucktail jigs, bottom bouncing bait rigs, and casting large stick baits. 

Shore fishing along Linear Park, western Oswego, is fruitful, and trolling with big #18 Rapalas remains a popular method for targeting sizable walleyes. Catfish, sheepshead, yellow perch, and bluegills add variety, responding to baits like worms, cut-bait, and dead minnows. The Marine Museum and Wrights Landing areas are hotspots for yellow perch and bluegill, caught using small minnows and spikes.

Summer (June to July)

As the temperature rises, the Oswego River is attractive to anglers fishing for smallmouth and largemouth bass. The summer months present a plethora of opportunities for strategic fishing, particularly below dams and around shoreline structures. 

Anglers can employ a diverse array of artificial lures, including spinnerbaits, crankbaits, topwaters, and plastic baits, to entice both smallmouth and largemouth bass. The river’s dynamic currents and structure-rich environment make it an ideal playground for bass enthusiasts seeking a variety of fishing experiences.

Live bait options such as worms, crayfish, and minnows further enhance the angler’s arsenal, providing reliable alternatives for those preferring a more traditional approach. The accessibility of the Oswego River, with its downtown location, adds to the allure of summer bass fishing. 

Whether casting from the riverbank or navigating the waters in drift boats, anglers can enjoy a seamless and convenient experience. The unique blend of urban surroundings and abundant bass populations makes fishing the Oswego River productive for both beginner fishermen and seasoned bass fishermen alike during the summer months.

Fall (August to November)

Fall introduces the spectacle of trophy chinook salmon staging at the river mouth. Trolling with J-plugs, flies and flashers, and cut-bait proves effective in targeting these impressive salmon. As temperatures drop, salmon move into the river, presenting opportunities for angling with egg sacs, skein, egg-imitating plastics, and plugs. 

Steelhead and brown trout follow the salmon run, adding diversity to the catch. Fishing near the Varick Street Dam with egg imitations, streamers, and nymphs becomes productive during this season. The river’s unique setting in downtown, coupled with its substantial stocking program, makes it a hotspot for fall salmon fishing.

Winter (December to February)

Despite the winter chill, the Oswego River maintains its fishing appeal. Steelhead and brown trout fishing persist in the river, making bottom-bouncing egg sacs in deeper holes or slack water areas a recommended technique. 

Fishing during mid-day after mild weather periods increases action in the cold winter months. Safety precautions are paramount, especially for those venturing directly into the river or in drift boats. Hiring a fishing charter or boat guide is advisable for those less experienced with the river’s winter conditions. The well-stocked river, with its unique downtown location, offers a distinctive winter fishing experience.

What is the Oswego River known for?

The Oswego River, located in upstate New York, has a rich fishing history highlighted by remarkable records. Among the notable achievements, Stephen M. Sheets from Woolrich, Pa., secured a World Record Coho Salmon on August 13, 1998, weighing an impressive 33.45 pounds. 

Additionally, Tony Brown of Schenectady, NY, set the New York State Record for Brown Trout at 33 pounds, 2 ounces on June 10, 1997. Both of these extraordinary catches were made under the guidance of local fishing charter captains, emphasizing the expertise and opportunities the Oswego River provides for anglers. 

To this day, these records remain a testament to the exceptional fishing experiences the Oswego River offers.

Delving into the local historical significance of fishing in the Oswego River, it is crucial to recognize its role in spawning impressive catches. The river’s contributions to the fishing world extend beyond individual records, as it has consistently produced remarkable steelhead runs in early spring and salmon runs in early fall. 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation plays an active role in maintaining the vibrant fish population, annually stocking 140,000 chinook salmon and 20,000 steelhead. This sustained effort ensures that the Oswego River continues to be a haven for anglers seeking unparalleled fishing experiences and the thrill of capturing record-breaking catches.

In addition to its fishing allure, the Oswego area surrounding Lake Ontario is steeped in local culture and community activities. The river itself has historical significance, as James Fenimore Cooper’s novel “The Pathfinder, or The Inland Sea” is set in the Oswego River valley. 

The name Oswego, derived from the Mohawk language, translates to “flowing out,” capturing the essence of this Lake Ontario tributary’s importance. The region hosts various activities, events, and festivals, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Residents and visitors alike can explore the natural beauty of the river, its surroundings, and participate in cultural events that celebrate the rich history and diversity of the Oswego area.

Moreover, the Oswego River serves as a crucial component of the New York State Canal System, connecting the Erie Canal to Lake Ontario. The Oswego Canal, a part of this extensive system, was completed in 1827 and underwent significant improvements in 1917. Today, it stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the region, offering both historical and recreational significance.

While the river’s pollution history marked it as a Great Lakes Area of Concern, concerted efforts led to its formal removal from the list on July 21, 2006. This achievement reflects the community’s commitment to preserving the ecological integrity of the Oswego River, ensuring its continued prominence as a hub for sport fishing and a vital part of the local ecosystem.

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

For anglers seeking access to the Oswego River in Fulton, NY, boat ramps provide convenient entry points. The boat access in Fulton serves as a gateway for boating enthusiasts, facilitating a smooth transition onto the river. 

While the details on fees for these ramps are not explicitly mentioned, it’s advisable for anglers to check local regulations or signage for any associated costs. Additionally, the public fishing access points around Fulton, NY allow shoreline anglers to cast their lines into the river. 

This area, though, might experience higher angler traffic, especially below the Varick Dam locks, where anglers often line up side-by-side to capitalize on the Oswego River as a fishing hotspot. Linear Park in Oswego offers another notable access point to the Oswego River. 

Shoreline fishing is a popular choice here, and the park provides a picturesque setting for anglers to enjoy their fishing experience. The accessibility from Linear Park caters to both boat-based and shore-based anglers. 

Anglers utilizing this access point may find the environment suitable for various fishing techniques, from casting to fly fishing, depending on their preferences and the river conditions.

Wrights Landing Marina is another key location for accessing the Oswego River. The availability of boat ramps at this site makes it a suitable launch point for boaters eager to explore the river’s fishing opportunities. 

As with Fulton, NY, anglers should be attentive to any potential fees associated with the use of boat ramps. While Wrights Landing provides boaters with a direct route onto the river, shore anglers can also take advantage of this access point, enhancing the versatility of this location for the angling community.

The area around the Route 104 bridge marks a unique spot for accessing the Oswego River. Here, the river slows down as it confluences with Lake Ontario, creating an environment suitable for various fishing techniques. 

Shore anglers, especially fly fishing enthusiasts, will appreciate the cobbled or rock-filled bottom. It’s essential to exercise caution during high flows when wading may not be advisable. This location, with its diverse characteristics, becomes a hub for anglers looking to experience different facets of river fishing, from fly fishing to conventional spinning and casting methods.