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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.
2025 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 | 09/18 - 10/15 | 10/16 - 10/29 | 10/30 - 12/15 |
| Johnson Creek | Niagara & Orleans | 09/18 - 10/22 | 10/23 - 11/5 | 11/6 - 12/15 |
| Oak Orchard Creek | Orleans | 09/18 - 10/8 | 10/9 - 10/22, 11/6 - 11/19 | 11/20 - 12/15 |
| Sandy Creek | Monroe & Orleans | 09/19 - 10/24 | 10/30 - 11/12 | 11/13 - 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
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
2025 Calendar
Free Fishing Days - No License Required
- Sat Sep 27, 2025 – National Hunting and Fishing Day
- Tues Nov 11, 2025 – 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.
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.
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!