The Best Trout Fishing in The Eastern Basin

Ontario’s Eastern Basin is renowned for its spring fishing, drawing anglers from across the region. The season begins with brown trout fishing close to the shoreline, followed by abundant catches of coho and Chinook salmon. Steelhead and Atlantic salmon are also occasionally found in the area.

One of the highlights is the famous Salmon River, known for its steelhead runs, which continue until early May. As water temperatures rise, these fish return to the lake.

However, beyond the popular spots, the region has less-explored streams and tributaries that offer exceptional trout fishing. These areas provide great opportunities for anglers willing to seek out more secluded locations.

Early Spring Trout Fishing in Lake Ontario’s Tributaries

The April 1 trout opener is a highly anticipated event for anglers throughout New York State, marking the start of trout season. For many, it’s a time to shake off the winter blues and get back on the water. However, anglers targeting the eastern basin tributaries face unique challenges. Cold temperatures and snow-covered access roads, particularly in higher elevations like the Tug Hill Region, often delay their start.

These streams, fed by melting snow, can remain icy cold well into early spring. As a result, anglers in these areas know that timing is crucial. They can’t just rely on the official opener date but must wait for optimal conditions to target the fish effectively.

Angling Conditions and the Best Time to Fish

In the eastern basin, anglers are more focused on weather forecasts than the specific date of the trout opener. While early April often sees snow-covered streams and cold waters, the region offers some of the best trout fishing once conditions stabilize. This typically extends through spring and into the summer months.

By mid- to late April, as the water temperatures rise and the streams begin to thaw, the fishing action picks up. Brook, brown, and rainbow trout become more active, making it an ideal time for anglers to target these fish.

Essential Gear for Tributary Fishing

If you’re new to the region’s tributaries, it’s important to have the right maps and fishing regulations on hand. A helpful resource is DeLorme’s New York State Atlas and Gazetteer, which provides detailed maps with roadways, stream locations, and parking access points. Additionally, always carry a copy of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulations to ensure you follow size and creel limits for each stream. Some streams have special regulations, so staying informed is crucial.

Another often overlooked item is a thermometer. Early season waters can be quite cold, typically ranging from the 40s to low 50s. Monitoring the water temperature is key, as trout tend to congregate in areas with slightly warmer water, such as quiet pools where temperatures are a few degrees higher than the surrounding flow. These thermal refuges can hold fish in abundance, making them a prime spot for a successful day of fishing.

The Joys of Secluded Streams

Many of the streams in the region are stocked by the DEC with brown, rainbow, and brook trout, but the most productive fishing often happens in more secluded waters. These areas, found away from roads and bridges, tend to have less fishing pressure, allowing native trout populations to thrive. The fish in these remote streams are typically more wary and harder to catch, but that often means better fishing opportunities for those willing to put in the extra effort. Accessing these spots may require hiking, wading, or navigating rugged terrain, but the reduced competition and higher fish quality make it worthwhile.

Fishing Setup for Success

For these streams, I rely on a lightweight tackle setup that gives me the precision and sensitivity needed to target the more finicky trout. The 5-foot Daiwa Eliminator ultra-light rod provides a quick, responsive action that’s crucial for detecting even the slightest strikes from trout, especially in these smaller, clearer streams where the fish tend to be more cautious. The short length of the rod offers better control in tight spots, making it easier to maneuver in overgrown stream banks or along rocky outcrops.

Paired with the Daiwa rod is the Eagle Claw GF 10 reel, spooled with 2 lb. monofilament. This ultralight setup allows me to cast with pinpoint accuracy while maintaining enough strength to handle a decent-sized fish without overloading the delicate tackle. The 2 lb. monofilament provides minimal drag in the water, giving the lure a more natural presentation. It’s strong enough for the typical trout in these streams, but light enough to avoid spooking the fish. Monofilament also offers excellent knot strength and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for precision casting.

In terms of lures, my go-to choice is 1/16 oz colored jigs, which are effective in both shallow and deeper runs. The small size makes them perfect for matching the size of the smaller forage that trout are likely feeding on in these streams. I often tip the jigs with a small piece of nightcrawler or a small twister tail, which adds a bit of movement to the lure, making it more enticing to the fish. On days when the fishing slows down, I’ll switch to small Mepps spinners, particularly in slower-moving water or beaver ponds where brook trout are more likely to linger. The spinning blades of the Mepps mimic the action of a distressed baitfish, often triggering strikes from hungry trout.

When it comes to catch and release, spinning lures are ideal because they minimize damage to the fish. The barbed hooks on many jigs and spinners make for easier hook removal, which is less stressful for the trout, especially in catch-and-release environments. However, when the fishing is good, I don’t mind keeping a few for a meal. A mess of fresh brookies or browns, fried golden brown in a skillet with a bit of butter, is a rewarding way to enjoy the fruits of the day’s efforts.

Top Streams and Tributaries to Explore

The East Branch of the Salmon River, extending from Redfield to Osceola, is one of the most well-known fishing locations in the area. Renowned for its strong population of steelhead and brown trout, this stretch of the Salmon River offers both novice and experienced anglers an opportunity to target some of the lake’s larger trout.

The river’s combination of deep pools, fast runs, and slower-moving sections provides anglers with the chance to adjust techniques based on water conditions. Similarly, the West Branch of Fish Creek near Williamstown offers another prime fishing spot, with a healthy mix of brook and brown trout. This branch is particularly popular in the early spring when fish are more concentrated in the shallow waters.

The Mohawk River, particularly near Northwestern and its tributary Lansing Creek at Pixley Falls State Park, is a standout location for trout fishing. This river system is known for its scenic beauty and abundant fish population. Lansing Creek, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant aquatic life, attracts both stocked and wild trout, making it a great spot for anglers seeking a quiet, secluded experience.

Lastly, the North Branch of the Salmon River, located near Otto Mills Road or nearby Cold Brook, rounds out our list of favorite fishing destinations. This area offers great access to wild brook and rainbow trout, especially during the colder months when fish are more active and concentrated in the deeper sections of the stream.

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!