Oak Orchard Creek and Marsh Creek
Genesee River Sports Fishing
While the Genesee River is often associated with the famed salmon and steelhead runs in the City of Rochester, the upper reaches of the river in Allegany County provide an excellent, albeit lesser-known, opportunity for trout fishing. The Genesee River, particularly its upper portion, offers a mix of brown trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass fishing, making it a versatile destination for anglers.
Trout Fishing: A 40-Mile Stretch of Prime Waters
The upper Genesee River, stretching from the Pennsylvania border near Shongo to Belmont, is a prime trout stream. This section is stocked each year with a healthy number of fish: 20,600 yearling brown trout, 6,200 yearling rainbow trout, and 2,300 two-year-old brown trout that average 14 inches. With 40 miles of trout fishing opportunities, including 18 miles of Public Fishing Rights (PFRs), this stretch provides anglers with plenty of room to find a secluded spot for fishing.
The river also features a catch-and-release area and fishing platforms, making it an excellent choice for those looking for both accessibility and quality fishing. The river’s diversity of pools, riffles, and runs creates the perfect habitat for trout, and anglers can expect good fishing throughout the year. A detailed map of the river, including access points and fishing areas, can be found here.
Smallmouth Bass and Walleye: A Canoe and Kayak Fisherman’s Dream
In addition to its trout fishing, the middle section of the Genesee River, particularly in Livingston and Monroe counties just north of Letchworth State Park, is a prime location for smallmouth bass fishing. This stretch offers miles of paddling opportunities, making it an excellent choice for canoe and kayak anglers. The smallmouths in this section are plentiful, and the river’s flow, rocky bottom, and deep pools create the ideal environment for these prized gamefish.
Occasionally, walleyes can be found in the Genesee River, particularly below the Mt. Morris Dam where the pools are deep and prime for walleye habitat. The combination of smallmouth bass and the occasional walleye, along with the scenic beauty of the river, makes this area a hidden gem for freshwater anglers.
Access and Regulations
The Genesee River offers ample public fishing rights (PFRs) and has several well-marked access points, making it easy for anglers to reach prime fishing spots. Whether you’re fishing for trout in the upper stretches or targeting smallmouth bass in the middle sections, the river is accessible and provides plenty of opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
Before heading out, be sure to review the New York State fishing regulations for the Genesee River, especially regarding trout and walleye seasons, gear restrictions, and protected areas.
Salmon River
While the Salmon River is best known for its famous salmon and steelhead runs in the fall and spring, it offers an underrated opportunity for bass fishing during the summer months. If you visit in June, you may find yourself alone in some of the river’s prime bass fishing pools, such as the Compactor Pool, without the usual crowd of anglers vying for the best spots during peak salmon season.
Prime Smallmouth Bass Locations
Summer bass fishing on the Salmon River can be surprisingly good, especially in the deeper pools, where smallmouth bass take refuge from the warm weather. Some of the best fishing spots along the river include:
- Black Hole
- Compactor Pool
- Sportsman’s Pool North
- Sportsman’s Pool South
- Trestle Pool North
- Trestle Pool South
- Wire Hole (on Orwell Brook)
- Paradise Pool
These deeper areas offer plenty of shelter and feeding grounds for smallmouth bass during the warmer months. The low water levels in the summer can make fishing a bit more challenging in some sections, but the bass are still there, making it an excellent time to catch them with minimal competition from other anglers.
Drift Fishing for Smallmouths
One of the best ways to experience bass fishing on the Salmon River in the summer is through drift fishing—especially by canoe. The river’s serene setting, coupled with the warm summer days, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable fishing experience. The water’s reduced flow makes it easier to maneuver through the river, and you can drift through many of the prime bass habitats. You may find yourself completely alone, as fishing pressure is lower in the summer, providing you with an undisturbed experience.
Seasonal Break from Salmon and Steelhead Crowds
While the Salmon River gets crowded during the famous Chinook salmon and steelhead trout runs in the fall and spring, the summer months provide a perfect escape from the usual throngs of anglers. If you want to avoid the intense fishing pressure that comes with the annual salmon and steelhead runs, visiting the river in June for bass fishing can be a peaceful experience.
For those looking to continue their pursuit of salmon and trout, a short 10-mile drive to South Sandy Creek or Skinner Creek can provide excellent Chinook salmon and rainbow trout fishing, away from the masses on the Salmon River.
Access and Regulations
The Salmon River is well-known and offers a variety of public fishing rights (PFRs) along its length. A detailed map of the fishing access points and rights along the river is available here, which can help you find the best spots to target bass.
Black River
The Black River in Jefferson County offers an excellent summer fishing opportunity for smallmouth bass, especially for those who enjoy canoeing or kayaking. Originating from the western edge of the Adirondacks, the Black River winds its way to Lake Ontario, with several sections providing access to outstanding fishing spots.
Ideal Fishing Section
While the lower portion of the river, which flows through a gorge, is not suitable for canoeing, the middle section of the river, running from Lyons Falls to Carthage, is an ideal paddle-fishing destination. This 40-mile stretch is relatively flat, offering a smooth ride for canoe and kayak anglers. The slow-moving water makes it perfect for those looking to catch smallmouth bass, as well as pike and walleye.
This section of the Black River is especially popular during the summer months when the conditions are ideal for both fishing and paddling. The combination of great access and scenic views make it a memorable trip for any angler.
Fishing Highlights
In addition to the smallmouth bass, you’ll find a variety of species to target, including pike and walleye, providing diverse fishing opportunities throughout the river. The Black River’s middle section is known for its calm waters and plentiful fish populations, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers alike.
Access Points
For easy access to different parts of the Black River, check out the detailed maps available for the Lyons Falls to Carthage section at this link, which will help you navigate the river and find the best spots for fishing and paddling.
Summer Logistics
Fishing the tributaries of Lake Ontario during the summer can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of logistical considerations. While the tributaries are less crowded than during the peak salmon and steelhead seasons, safety should always be a priority, especially if you’re venturing out on the water.
Safety First: Bring a Buddy and Wear a PFD
Though you might have the streams to yourself, it’s crucial to follow safety precautions when fishing, especially if you’re kayaking or canoeing. Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times—this applies even on calm waters, as conditions can change unexpectedly. It’s also a good idea to bring a buddy along. There’s no harm in having someone with you for safety and company, especially in remote areas.
Exploring the Tributaries
Summer fishing on the Lake Ontario tributaries—especially during the off-season—can provide a unique opportunity to target species like smallmouth bass and walleye. While the streams may be quieter, many of the fish still remain active and willing to bite, especially in the lower sections of the rivers. The drift fishing experience in a canoe or kayak is a great way to explore these waters, offering the chance to access parts of the river that would otherwise be challenging to fish.
Preparation and Resources
Before you head out, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations and access points for each tributary. Resources like the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation website provide valuable maps and fishing guidelines, which can make your trip more enjoyable and successful.
