The Best Trout Fishing in The Eastern Basin

Lake Ontario’s Eastern Basin is renowned for its excellent spring fishing, attracting anglers from all over for the abundance of species it offers. The nearshore brown trout fishing kicks off the season, followed by great catches of coho and Chinook salmon, and even an occasional steelhead and Atlantic salmon. The famous Salmon River steals the spotlight with its renowned steelhead runs, which persist until early May when rising water temperatures signal the silver torpedoes to return to the lake. But what many anglers overlook are the hidden gems of the region—the pristine, scenic streams and tributaries that provide fantastic trout fishing opportunities for those willing to venture beyond the beaten path.

Early Spring Trout Fishing in Lake Ontario’s Tributaries

The April 1 trout opener is a highly anticipated event for anglers across New York State, signaling the start of trout season. In many regions, it marks a time of excitement as anglers shed their winter blues and hit the waters. However, for anglers targeting the eastern basin tributaries, the excitement is often tempered by cold temperatures and snow-covered access roads, especially in higher elevations like the Tug Hill Region. These streams, fed by melting snow, can remain icy cold well into the early spring, and anglers know they must watch for optimal conditions rather than simply relying on the official opener.

Angling Conditions and the Best Time to Fish

Unlike other areas of the state, anglers in the eastern basin tend to be more attuned to weather forecasts than the specific date of the trout opener. While the streams are often still snowed in or the waters are too cold in early April, the region offers some of the best trout fishing opportunities once the conditions stabilize, often extending through spring and well into summer. By mid- to late April, as water temperatures begin to rise and the streams thaw, the fishing action intensifies, with brook, brown, and rainbow trout becoming increasingly active.

Essential Gear for Tributary Fishing

If you’re unfamiliar with the region’s tributaries, having the right map and fishing regulations is essential. A good resource is DeLorme’s New York State Atlas and Gazetteer, which provides comprehensive maps with detailed roadways, stream locations, and parking access points. For those unfamiliar with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulations, always have a copy on hand to ensure you adhere to specific size and creel limits for each stream. Some streams in the area are subject to special regulations, so staying informed is crucial.

One item often overlooked by newcomers is a thermometer. Early season waters are still cold, with temperatures often hovering in the 40s to low 50s. Monitoring water temperature can be the key to success. Trout are more likely to congregate in areas with slightly warmer water, such as quiet pools where temperatures may rise just a few degrees above the surrounding flow. These thermal refuges can hold fish in abundance and make all the difference in your day on the water.

The Joys of Secluded Streams

While the DEC stocks many of the streams in the region with brown, rainbow, and brook trout, seclusion often brings a bounty of native trout that are not subject to the same fishing pressure. The streams off the beaten path, away from roads and bridges, can yield some of the best trout fishing you’ll find in New York State. These more remote locations can be accessed with a bit of effort and are typically less crowded, providing a more peaceful and rewarding fishing experience.

Fishing Setup for Success

When it comes to tackle, I prefer a lightweight approach for these streams. A 5-foot Daiwa Eliminator ultra-light rod paired with an Eagle Claw GF 10 reel spooled with 2 lb. monofilament is my go-to setup. This light gear allows for precise control and sensitivity, perfect for the subtle strikes of trout. My son Jeff and I generally stick with a selection of 1/16 oz colored jigs, tipped with a small piece of nightcrawler or a small twister tail. On occasion, we’ll switch to small Mepps spinners, especially in slower-moving water, such as the beaver ponds where brook trout tend to thrive.

Spinning lures make catch and release easier, but when the fishing is good, we also enjoy the tasty rewards of a mess of brookies or browns, fried golden brown right out of the frying pan.

Top Streams and Tributaries to Explore

The eastern basin of Lake Ontario is home to numerous streams and rivers, many of which are stocked with trout each year. While it’s impossible to list all of them, some of our favorite spots that have consistently produced great results over the years include:

• Fall Brook near Osceola
• Fish Creek, from Taberg to Swancott Mills (Tagasoke Reservoir)
• Point Rock Creek near Taberg
• East Branch of the Salmon River, from Redfield to Osceola
• West Branch of Fish Creek near Williamstown
• Mohawk River near Northwestern, particularly its tributary Lansing Creek at Pixley Falls State Park
• North Branch of the Salmon River, near Otto Mills Road, or nearby Cold Brook

Each of these spots offers great fishing and can be explored in depth, with opportunities for both wild and stocked trout.

Dealing with Black Flies

The arrival of black flies is another hallmark of spring fishing in the region. These tiny pests are a nuisance, particularly when they hatch in the cold, clear waters of the tributaries. Be sure to wear long-sleeved shirts and apply effective bug spray to avoid getting overwhelmed by the insects. Though the black flies can be a challenge, they’re part of the seasonal experience, and the fishing is well worth the discomfort.

Patience Pays Off

While anglers in other parts of the state may already be enjoying their long-anticipated trout opener, those of us fishing the eastern basin know that our time will come soon enough. In the meantime, we can enjoy fat brown trout and steelhead off the Linear Park walkways along both sides of the Oswego River. And, of course, the Salmon River, Grindstone Creek, Sandy Creek, and South Sandy Creek continue to offer excellent opportunities for steelhead fishing through early spring.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Bounty of Eastern Basin Streams

There’s no doubt that the tributaries and streams feeding into Lake Ontario’s Eastern Basin are an angler’s paradise. While they may not always receive the same attention as the famous rivers like the Salmon River, they offer some of the best and most rewarding trout fishing in New York State. Whether you’re seeking brook, brown, or rainbow trout, these remote and pristine waters are full of potential.

Remember, fishing these lesser-known spots comes with a responsibility to practice environmentally conscious fishing. Always follow catch-and-release practices where required, and if you carry it in, make sure to carry it out. Respect the waters, and enjoy the fabulous fishing the eastern basin has to offer!