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Fall Fishing Program

Each fall, the Canal Corporation makes releases from the Erie Canal as it is drained for the winter into Lake Ontario tributaries. In addition to kicking off fall fishing season, this release strengthens the population of local species and provides a longer, more bountiful angling experience. 

Fall Fishing Video

Flow Releases Benefits

To create better angling opportunities, water release flows are periodically increased between September and December along specific waterways, resulting in improved spawning conditions for brown trout, steelhead and salmon. Refer to the table below before browsing fishing areas.

2024 Flow Release Schedule

New Schedule Announced Each September

  EARLY SEASON LATE SEASON*
WATERWAY COUNTY INCREASED FLOW RELEASES ADDITIONAL INCREASED FLOW RELEASES FLOW RELEASES
Eighteenmile Creek Niagara 09/19 - 10/10 10/10 - 10/24 10/24 - 12/15
Johnson Creek Niagara & Orleans 09/19 - 10/03 10/03 - 10/17 10/31 - 12/15
Oak Orchard Creek Orleans 09/19 - 10/17 10/17 - 10/31 11/07 - 12/15
Sandy Creek Monroe & Orleans 09/19 - 10/24 10/24 - 11/07 11/14 - 12/15

*From about Nov 1-30, during Late Season, higher releases to these Lake Ontario tributaries are anticipated to extend fishing opportunities even as winter approaches. Water levels are kept elevated in the Erie Canal, so increased releases similar to Early Season can be repeated. From about Dec 1-15, releases continue as water levels are lowered in the canal for draining and then gradually end for the year.

Find Your Fishing Spot

The four creeks shown receive additional flows of Erie Canal water during the fall months.

Fishing Locations

Each fishing location along the NYS Canals is unique. Get to know each one before choosing the spot that’s right for you.

Eighteen Mile Creek

Niagara County

Sandy Creek

Orleans & Monroe Counties
Sandy Creek Guide

Oak Orchard Creek

Orleans County
Oak Orchard Creek Guide

Johnson Creek

Niagara & Orleans Counties
Johnson Creek Guide

Live Conditions Tracker  

Stay up to date on natural occurrences that may impact fishing conditions with data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Water flow rates can affect species availability so always check here before casting a line.
Fall Fishing Program
Download Fishing Guidelines

2024 Calendar

Free Fishing Days - No License Required

  • Sat Feb 17 & Sun Feb 18, 2024 – Presidents Day Weekend
  • Sat Jun 29 & Sun Jun 30, 2024
  • Sat Sep 28, 2024 – National Hunting and Fishing Day
  • Mon Nov 11, 2024 – Veterans Day

Fall Fishing Resources

Learn about the local environment, the various types of fish you may encounter, as well as what you can do to help prevent the spread of invasive species with help from the Department of Environmental Conservation.
See all Resources

Fall fishing gallery

Get a glimpse of the environment and wildlife you might encounter while fishing along the New York State Canals

Access & Conservation Easement (ACE) Program 

The Canal Corporation is dedicated to improving the health of our waterways through multifaceted sustainability efforts. Learn more about the Canal Corporation’s partnership with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and what we’re doing to ensure public fishing access for generations to come.
About Access & Conservation Easement

On The Canals

Think you’ve seen all that the New York State Canal System has to offer? Learn about thrilling adventures and more On the Canals! 
Find Adventures On The Canals