Fish Species and Seasonal Tips for Fishing 18 Mile Creek In Niagara County NY
18 Mile Creek, meanders through the scenic landscape of Western New York State, offers a captivating fishing experience for enthusiasts. As a Lake Ontario Tributary, 18 Mile Creek originates just north of the City of Lockport in Olcott Harbor. This waterway spans approximately 26 miles northward, winding through the Town of Newfane.
Eighteen Mile Creek features a 60-foot-deep gorge, with mostly flat terrain above and between its two branches. The area provides a varied fishing environment and is a notable geographic feature in the region.
18 Mile Creek is renowned for its diverse fish population, offering anglers the chance to target a variety of species. The creek hosts runs of chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, brown trout, and the occasional Atlantic salmon.
Smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, rock bass, and largemouth bass are also among the common catches in these waters. The mix of migratory and resident species makes Eighteen Mile Creek an attractive destination for anglers seeking a range of fishing experiences, from the thrill of pursuing salmon runs to the challenge of landing bass in its varied waters.
Other NY fishing hotspots
Seasonal Fishing Techniques by Species:
Spring (March to May)
As spring graces 18 Mile Creek, anglers eagerly anticipate the spawning season from March to May, attracting many brown trout enthusiasts. During this period, the creek offers prime conditions for anglers to target brown trout, with ideal water temperatures and an abundance of fish.
Traditional fishing techniques such as dry fly and nymph fishing are commonly employed. The spring also witnesses a rise in insect activity, prompting anglers to utilize imitations of hatches for a successful catch. Steelhead runs are prevalent throughout the winter, making them an additional target during this season.
Summer (June to July)
Transitioning into the summer months, particularly June to July, 18 Mile Creek presents opportunities for anglers to explore deeper spots or cooler areas targeting smallmouth bass. The strategic choice of fishing times, such as early morning or late at night on cloudy days, enhances the likelihood of a successful catch.
While summer isn’t peak spawning season, smallmouth bass remain active. Anglers commonly use spinning rods for finesse techniques and baitcasting reels for more accurate casting with heavier lures. Popular setups include soft plastics, crankbaits, and jigs. Forceps or pliers are essential for safe and efficient hook removal, especially when handling deeper-hooked fish.
Fall (August to November)
From September to November, the angling community eagerly anticipates the arrival of Chinook salmon, creating healthy competition amongst anglers.
The excitement continues in October and November as lake-run brown trout join the scene, providing fly and spinning options.
In fall, Eighteen Mile Creek experiences significant runs of steelhead, chinook salmon, and brown trout. These species become more active, making it a prime time for anglers. Fly fishing is widely used and effective for targeting these fish, with anglers presenting various fly patterns to match local conditions.
Anglers should focus on deeper pools, riffles, and creek bends where these fish hold. Proper timing, technique, and equipment are important for success during this period.
Winter (December to February)
Even in the colder months, 18 Mile Creek maintains its allure for anglers seeking steelhead and brown trout. The creek’s bottom discharge tailwater prevents freezing, allowing for year-round angling.
Winter fishing enthusiasts often target key spots, such as the famous turbine hole and overflow pool at the dam, and a short section below Burt Dam. Despite potential challenges from dingy water caused by heavy rain and melting snow, anglers equipped with the right flies, including nymphs and egg imitations, continue to find success.
Nymph fishing techniques, the use of strike indicators, and drift egg flies are prevalent methods employed during winter fly fishing expeditions at Eighteen Mile Creek.
What 18 Mile Creek is Known For
18 Mile Creek is a fishing hotspot for anglers in Western NY, with one remarkable record etched into its fishing history. Benjamin LaDuca achieved a feat that echoes through time—a 15-pound, 31-inch brown trout captured at Olcott, NY. This impressive catch underscores the creek’s diverse ecosystem, featuring Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and occasional Atlantic salmon.
Each fall, these fish migrate from Lake Ontario, navigating upstream into the creek. This natural spectacle is enriched by the arrival of steelhead, which enter the creek both in the fall and late February through April.
Adequate water levels are supported by contributions from the New York State Barge Canal. This allows the Creek to accommodate a variety of recreational activities including fishing and boating. During canal operations, water is strategically released into the creek’s East and West Branches, ensuring a steady flow.
The community around 18 Mile Creek offers diverse activities, and heritage celebrations. Whether fishing, canoeing, or hiking, joining festivities, it promises an enriching experience.
Boat Ramps, Boat Launches, Marinas, and Public Access Points.
18 Mile Creek offers prime access points for anglers eager to explore its waters. The Burt Dam, conveniently accessible off Route 78, serves as a popular entry spot, featuring a parking lot and trails leading to the water.
Below the dam, anglers can find excellent fishing opportunities, though caution is advised due to dynamic water conditions. The creek’s shallow and tumultuous nature makes it ideal for wading and shoreline casting rather than boating.
To reach 18 Mile Creek, travelers can take Route 78 from the south or Route 18 from the east or west, both routes leading directly into Olcott. Additional access points along Route 78, heading south through Burt and Newfane, offer options for anglers, albeit with potential parking limitations.
The creek welcomes public access, but anglers should be aware of specific regulations during certain seasons, ensuring compliance when planning their trips.
