May 1, 2014

St. Lawrence River: We’re hearing the bullhead action has been solid, but not much else. Black Lake: A late ice-out had anglers playing a waiting game.

Hendricksons should be in full swing on the Catskill rivers. Beaverkill/Willowemoc: Were looking good as of late last week, albeit on the cold side. Very little surface activity but that could have changed by now. West Branch of the Delaware: High at last look and better floated than waded. Caddis, stoneflies and Blue Quills were about. Main

Most of the region’s trout waters have now been stocked, and water conditions – levels and temperature – should be much improved by now and offering some good fishing. Also, the popular New York City reservoir system waters should be heating up for a variety of species, including crappie and, on some waters, walleye, (walleye

Conditions are much improved on the region’s trout streams, and most have been stocked with trout. It’s worth a look to hit the Mettawee, Battenkill, Kayderosseras and some others. Not hearing much elsewhere.

The freshwater fishing has been very good for all species. The primary focus has been on trout in the Carlls, Nissequogue and Carmen’s rivers. The trout are primarily stocked rainbows and brown trout, as well as a few native brook trout.  Trout worms, small spinners and streamers were all producing. Many of the trout are

Most of the region’s trout streams, including the West Branch of the Ausable, have been stocked with trout. Water temperatures remained cold but improving, and water levels were also more conducive to fishing. The region’s backcountry brook trout anglers were running late this year due to ice on most of their favorite ponds. Attention has

Cayuga Lake: Be careful if heading out in boats as there is a lot of debris floating around on the lake. Anglers fishing the north end were getting some perch and anglers trolling the south end are getting a few browns and Atlantic salmon. Seneca Lake: Use caution when boating; keep an eye out for

(Most of the region’s trout streams have now been stocked, some maybe more than once. And with stream levels and water temperatures improving, it’s worth getting out there and pursuing trout.) Lake Ontario: The spring near-shore brown trout fishing has started. Anglers trolling near shore with stick baits or small spoons were catching some nice

Lake Ontario and tributaries: Shoreline trollers in the lake are picking up browns and coho salmon with regularity, using stick baits to attract these feisty fish to hit. Dennis Hoffman of North Tonawanda reported good success on cohos; usually with any silver colored Rapala stick bait long-lined or fished off boards in 8-10 feet of