Discover Raquette River Fishing Tips, Seasons & Access Points
Notable fish species found in the Raquette River include brown trout, walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, brown bullhead, large, and smallmouth bass. The Raquette River, originating at Raquette Lake in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, is a significant waterway stretching 146 miles, making it the third-longest river entirely in New York State. The river flows northward, covering a distance of approximately 174 miles, and has a substantial drainage basin of 1120 miles².
The journey of the Raquette River takes it through various landscapes, offering a range of outdoor experiences from Piercefield to its convergence with the St. Lawrence River east of Massen, NY. The Adirondack region, where it originates, provides a scenic backdrop for anglers and nature enthusiasts.
The river’s proximity to Massena adds an urban touch to the experience, creating a blend of nature and accessibility. The river’s elevation drop of more than 457 meters creates dynamic water conditions, influencing the types of fish species that thrive in its waters.
Learn More – NY’s best fishing spots
Seasonal Fishing Techniques
Spring (March to May)
As spring unfolds along the Raquette River, anglers eagerly embrace the awakening of diverse species, notably brown trout, walleye, and northern pike. The section between Simon Pond and Raquette Falls, characterized by a flat-water river setting and marsh habitats, becomes a prime location for spring fishing enthusiasts.
For brown trout, strategic casting near riverbanks proves effective, especially when accompanied by lures that mimic the natural prey of these elusive fish. Fishing lures with realistic patterns resembling insects or small fish enhances the chances of enticing brown trout in the springtime. Some examples include the wooly bugger fly or Berkley Hit.
Walleye, lurking in deeper pools during the spring months, presents an exciting challenge. Walleye fishing with live bait such as minnows, strategically presented to attract the fish from their concealed locations is effective. Patience and finesse become crucial elements in spring walleye fishing.
Northern pike, known for their increased activity as spring progresses, respond well to larger lures and jerkbaits. The erratic and enticing movement of these artificial baits mimics injured or distressed prey, triggering the predatory instincts of the northern pike.
Anglers fishing the Raquette River in spring can thus employ a combination of strategic casting, live bait presentation, and enticing fishing lure choices to maximize their success in capturing the diverse and lively array of species awakening to the season.
Summer (June to July)
As summer fishing begins on the Raquette River, anglers can optimize their fishing strategies, especially when fishing for rainbow trout. For rainbow trout, employing spinners, spoons, or small crankbaits in vibrant colors is recommended, as these fish are attracted to flashy and reflective lures. Live bait options such as worms can also prove effective for rainbow trout.
When smallmouth bass fishing, topwater lures like poppers or buzz baits can create exciting bites, while soft plastic baits mimicking crayfish or minnows are productive alternatives. Panfish like perch and pumpkinseed respond well to small jigs.
Northern pike, more active in warmer months, may be enticed by flashy and large artificial lures during the summer season. Anglers exploring the western stretch between Raquette Pond and Setting Pole Dam can leverage flat-water fishing opportunities, utilizing techniques like trolling for rainbow trout or employing topwater lures for smallmouth bass.
Fall (August to November)
In the fall, fishing in the Raquette River’s well-frequented stretch from Raquette Pond to Setting Pole Dam remains a popular fishing spot, but the spotlight shifts to the intriguing confluence of the lake and river. This unique junction promises anglers an extraordinary experience, with largemouth bass fishing and northern pike fishing taking center stage during this season.
For largemouth bass fishing, exploring the shoreline becomes an exciting endeavor, employing soft plastic baits that mimic natural prey. On the other hand, large swimbaits or opting for the liveliness of live bait work well for fall northern pike fishing.
As fall progresses, the south end of Long Lake emerges as a hotspot for bass fishing. The fall months create an optimal environment, and anglers can capitalize on this by using appropriate techniques and bait choices. The confluence of the lake and river, along with the downstream flow, contributes to the seasonal dynamics, providing Raquette River anglers with a well-rounded and rewarding fishing experience.
Winter (December to February)
Winter transforms the Raquette River into a serene and icy landscape, drawing anglers seeking quiet but challenging experience. Ice fishing enthusiasts target rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, panfish, and the potentially larger northern pike.
The south end of Raquette becomes a focal point, and anglers drilling through the snowy weather may find success with tactics like jigging for panfish or using weighted dead bait for northern pike. Safety precautions and knowledge of winter conditions are paramount during this season.
What Raquette River is Known For
The Raquette River, in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, has garnered attention for its exceptional fishing experiences. Notable among its fishing records is the capture of a trophy catch in the flat-water section between Raquette Pond in the Village of Tupper Lake and Setting Pole Dam downstream.
Historically, the Raquette River played a pivotal role as part of the “Highway of the Adirondacks,” facilitating extensive travel by canoe or guideboat across hundreds of miles. This historic water route, which still forms the basis of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and the Adirondack Canoe Classic, highlights the river’s significance in connecting various waterways.
The river’s journey through natural and man-made lakes adds to its allure, and its final destination at Akwesasne on the Saint Lawrence River underscores its vital role in the region’s water systems.
In addition to its fishing prominence, the Raquette River offers a range of popular activities for both locals and visitors. Canoeing and kayaking fishing enthusiasts flock to the river, taking advantage of its scenic beauty and navigable stretches.
The river’s flat-water section, particularly between Raquette Pond and Setting Pole Dam, provides an excellent setting for fishing, with access points available at Tupper Lake Municipal Park and Setting Pole Dam. The presence of residential properties along this stretch adds a unique charm to the experience.
Downstream from Setting Pole Dam, the river flows into Piercefield Flow, offering another favored fishing destination. The local community along the Raquette River also embraces outdoor events, reflecting the area’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points
Accessing the Raquette River provides a diverse range of opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking with various access points along its course. In the Tupper Lake region, the east section of the river between Simon Pond and Raquette Falls offers an excellent fishing spot, and access can be found via the hard surface DEC boat launch, known as “The Crusher,” located 4 miles east of Tupper Lake on NYS Routes 3 & 30. A cartop launch is also available further east on Route 3 at Axton Landing off Corey’s Road, providing additional access for paddlers.
Heading west of Tupper Lake, the flat-water fishing between Raquette Pond in the Village of Tupper Lake and Setting Pole Dam offers another great fishing destination. Access to this section is available via a soft-surface launch at the Tupper Lake Municipal Park and a cartop launch near Setting Pole Dam.
The section is characterized by scenic river views, with some residential property along the way. Primitive camping is allowed at Setting Pole Dam, adding an option for those looking to extend their outdoor experience. Further downstream, in St. Lawrence County, the lower Raquette River stretches from Piercefield to its confluence with the St. Lawrence River east of Massena.
The lower Raquette River provides varied outdoor experiences, including white-water canoeing, kayak paddling, and fishing. The river is readily accessible by motor vehicle, offering convenient camping and picnic areas throughout its length. Various fishing and canoeing sections are highlighted, such as the upper river, upper Raquette Impoundments, middle river, and lower river, each presenting unique features and opportunities.
The Upper Raquette Impoundments are a series of eight reservoirs created by hydroelectric dams on the Raquette River in northern New York. They are located in St. Lawrence County, with the most northern point being in Colton, NY. These reservoirs are popular for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.
To facilitate access, boat launch sites are strategically located along the lower Raquette River, providing entry points for anglers and paddlers. These launch sites include Piercefield Flow, Carry Falls Reservoir, Stark Falls Reservoir, Blake Falls Reservoir, Rainbow Falls Reservoir, Five Falls Reservoir, South Colton Reservoir, Higley Flow Reservoir, and more.
These access points cater to different preferences, from serene impoundments to challenging white-water sections, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to explore the beauty and diversity of the Raquette River.
