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Damn Good River Fishing Guides In New York

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Recently Booked River Fishing Guides In New York

Fishing in Pulaski

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Pulaski

Morning/Afternoon Trip (6 Hrs)

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $400
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Lewiston

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Lewiston

Niagara River Fishing Charters

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $425
Fishing in Pulaski

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Pulaski

Salmon And Trout Fishing

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
Fishing in Buffalo

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Buffalo

Full Day Fishing Charter

NEW
19 ft 1 - 3 People From $575

Top Cities for River Fishing in New York

Top Species for River Fishing in New York

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Other Trips in New York

Fishing in Pulaski
Fishing in Pulaski
Fishing in Pulaski
trip description for Morning/Afternoon Trip (6 hrs) in Pulaski

Come on a multispecies adventure targeting trophy Pike, Bass, and Bowfin. These trips often have a ton of action with many different species being caught. Most people have heard of the morning bite and that's what you'll be fishing on these trips. The fish have rested and the fish love to feed first thing in the morning. Especially before the sun makes its mid-day peak. Meeting times and places can be coordinated in the days leading up to your trip. Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Pulaski

Morning/Afternoon Trip (6 Hrs)

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $400
Fishing in Pulaski
Fishing in Pulaski
Fishing in Pulaski
trip description for Salmon and Trout Fishing in Pulaski

We will be targeting trophy-sized Salmon and Trout on the famous Salmon River! You can also use other nearby locations for these trips, depending on how the conditions have been. This is definitely the trip for someone looking for the chance to hook into that once-in-a-lifetime fish. These adventures are one of the most sought-after trips and it is the busiest time of the season! Book today and let's get you hooked up with your trophy. Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Pulaski

Salmon And Trout Fishing

NEW
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $450
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Lewiston
Fishing in Lewiston
Fishing in Lewiston
trip description for Niagara River Fishing Charters in Lewiston

Full day trips are 6 hours. Maximum of 4 Clients to a boat. All rods, reels, bait and tackle are included. Clients must bring a valid New York State fishing license, Proper clothing for weather conditions along with rain gear as well as snacks food and drinks. Like half day trips, All clients must sign a waiver before boarding our vessel. For half-day sportfishing trips, Joe recommends bringing your favorite snacks and drinks and for full-day fishing charters, he suggests lunches along with extra snacks and drinks to keep you full and hydrated throughout the day. Joe is on the water year round and loves to fish the transition between warm water and cold water (or vice versa) when the fish get most active. Target fish species include Bass, Walleye, Salmon, Steelhead, Brown Trout and Lake Trout. He provides all his Clients with rods, reels, bait, and tackle but you are more than welcome to bring your own gear if you'd like. Each person aboard will be provided with a type 1 life jacket. There are certain times of the year where a life jacket must be worn at all times aboard our boat, especially in the winter. Coldwater fishing is extremely fun but must be done in a safe manner. You'll be fishing from a 2019 Lund 2175 Pro V Limited powered by a 350 horsepower Mercury Verado L6 Supercharged. The Boat Features a beamwidth of 8 feet 6 inches wide and a length of 21 feet 10 inches long. It's capable of speeds up to 65 mph. Lund Boats and Mercury Outboards have been around forever and are time tested and trusted by expert guides all over the United States The boat offers a comfortable ride--and the interior says it all: Beautiful charcoal bow carpet along with detachable sea deck mats that cover an all vinyl floor. Makes cleaning after some very fishy trips an absolute breeze. Walkthrough windshield provides our clients a break from the wind on colder days. Aft and Bow live wells along with a high-pressure wash down station. 4 Pro Ride limited seats. This rig is spacious and stable in even the roughest of water. A valid New York State fishing license is required for any person aboard our boat participating in fishing charters. Guided fishing trips include most of the fishing equipment you will need but there are some things you will be responsible for bringing. New York State Sportfishing License can be purchased online at. You may also want to consider buying a Canadian fishing license in order to fish both sides of the Niagara River as well as Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Fishing charters are year-round, Please dress Sportfishing during our cold season can be very rewarding as long as proper fishing equipment and clothing are used. Water and windproof outerwear is a must, wool socks and insulated waterproof boots will aid in keeping your feet warm and dry. Good quality hat and gloves will help heat loss and the gloves will ensure that you don't lose dexterity in your fingers In the event that you decide to keep some of their catch of the day Joe is more than happy to prep and filet them for you. All he asks is that you bring your own Ziploc bags (preferably gallon-sized) and a cooler with ice in it to keep them cold on your ride home. As a part of sportfishing, Joe tries to practice catch and release, however, clients are welcome to keep fish to enjoy, please consider releasing half your daily limit as a way of giving back to our fishery. Joe has a zero-tolerance drug policy on our boat. No drugs including Marijuana will be allowed aboard our vessel. We understand that Marijuana is legal in New York State but we will on multiple occasions be transiting through Canadian water. Possession in Canadian water is not allowed and puts all on board especially the Guide in jeopardy. Alcohol products are allowed in moderation at the Guide's discretion. Any intoxicated individuals will be asked to leave the vessel. Passengers safety is Guide Joe's first priority Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Lewiston

Niagara River Fishing Charters

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $425
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
trip description for Trolling, Jigging, & Bottomfishing in Montauk

Known for being the home port for some of the best sport fishing on the east coast, choose between a 5-hour or 9-hour day trip exploring the prolific inshore and nearshore waters around Montauk NY with a first-rate Captain and Boat in Captain Jim! Captain Jim is here to accommodate your needs on these day trips! He offers a variety of half-day, full-day, and extended full-day trips of inshore and nearshore fishing. The half-day trips are broken into morning and afternoon charters. Morning trips usually depart at 6 am and return to the dock by 11 am. Afternoon trips usually depart at noon and return to the dock by 5 pm. You will be trolling, jigging, or bottom fishing for up to 5 hours targeting Striped Bass, Bluefish, Fluke, Black Sea Bass, Porgies, Black Fish, Cod, and Ling The full-day trips usually depart the dock at 6 am and return at 3 pm. On this trip you will be targeting multiple species by trolling, drifting, jigging, and anchoring depending on the type of fish you would like to catch. This trip is ideal for those wishing to spend a full day on the water for up to 9 hours and looking for more say in what they'd like to target. Generally, the target species are similar to the half-day trips, just chasing larger specimens and more of them! On the day of your trip, you’ll be Stepping aboard Captain Jim’s gorgeous 32’ Topaz Sportfish powered by twin Caterpillar engines pushing 640 HP. Topaz Express boats are notorious for their comfy rides. Being safe on the water is the main priority of Captain Jim. His boat is equipped with an Acr Class 1 Eperb, First Aid Bag, Throw Ring, Lifejackets, and even a Switlik Solas A Life Raft. Not only does he have top-of-the-line safety features but he has all the Mac Daddy electronics such as a colored fish finder, 64-mile radar, chart plotter, spotlights, and one hell of a stereo. The cockpit and cabin were built completely custom with insulated fish boxes, pompanette seats, LED lighting, a teal dinette, a bathroom, and even A/C! All you need to bring is a Montauk saltwater fishing license and your food, drinks, a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Jim will take care of the rest! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Montauk

Trolling, Jigging, & Bottomfishing

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
trip description for Offshore Shark and Tuna in Montauk

On this trip, Captain Jim will be motoring you out up to 30 miles offshore and targeting larger species that swim down below. Typical shark species you will find on this adventure include Mako, Thresher, and Blue Sharks. Typically the tuna species will include Bluefin, Bonita, False Albacore, and Yellowfin. If you are lucky, you can encounter White Marlin and Mahi Mahi too! This trip is usually up to 10 hours. Step aboard Captain Jim’s gorgeous 32’ Topaz Sportfish powered by twin Caterpillar engines pushing 640 HP. Topaz Express boats are notorious for their comfy rides. Being safe on the water is the main priority of Captain Jim. His boat is equipped with an Acr Class 1 Eperb, First Aid Bag, Throw Ring, Lifejackets, and even a Switlik Solas A Life Raft. Not only does he have top-of-the-line safety features but he has all the Mac Daddy electronics such as a colored fish finder, 64-mile radar, chart plotter, spotlights, and one hell of a stereo. The cockpit and cabin were built completely custom with insulated fish boxes, pompanette seats, LED lighting, a teal dinette, a bathroom, and even A/C! All you need to bring is a Montauk saltwater fishing license and your food, drinks, a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Jim will take care of the rest! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Montauk

Offshore Shark And Tuna

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,700
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
trip description for Extended Offshore Tuna in Montauk

If you're ready to get some serious fishing done, Captain Jim doesn't mess around on these 14 hr Tuna trips! You'll be ripping it out 40 to 70 miles offshore targeting Bluefin and Yellowfin tuna, and don't be surprised if you encounter White Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and other pelagic species pelagic species along the way. This trip consists of mostly trolling by dropping the outriggers and putting out a spread of 9 to 11 rods. You will be using top-of-the-line gear, artificial lures, and hand-rigged bait. The average time of this trip is up to 14 hours and departure times will vary. Step aboard Captain Jim’s gorgeous 32’ Topaz Sportfish powered by twin Caterpillar engines pushing 640 HP. Topaz Express boats are notorious for their comfy rides. Being safe on the water is the main priority of Captain Jim. His boat is equipped with an Acr Class 1 Eperb, First Aid Bag, Throw Ring, Lifejackets, and even a Switlik Solas A Life Raft. Not only does he have top-of-the-line safety features but he has all the Mac Daddy electronics such as a colored fish finder, 64-mile radar, chart plotter, spotlights, and one hell of a stereo. The cockpit and cabin were built completely custom with insulated fish boxes, pompanette seats, LED lighting, a teal dinette, a bathroom, and even A/C! All you need to bring for the epic adventures is a Montauk saltwater fishing license and your own food, drinks, a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Jim will take care of the rest to ensure your trip of a lifetime! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Montauk

Extended Offshore Tuna

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,800
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
Fishing in Montauk
trip description for Overnight Canyon Trip in Montauk

If you are adventurous, this is the trip you have been waiting for! Montauk, located at the very tip of the South Fork peninsula of Long Island, is New York's largest commercial fishing harbor! It is known for being the home port for some of the best sport fishing on the east coast. Are you looking for some premier fishing, stunning views, and exciting adventures? You won’t regret fishing in Montauk with the immaculate service that Captain Jim provides. ​​Overnight canyon trips are the ultimate fishing experience. Traveling offshore to "The Canyons", located approximately 70 miles from Montauk Point, Captain Jim targets a variety of big game fish, including Blue Marlin, Bigeye Tuna, Wahoo, and more! On this trip, Captain Jim trolls during the daylight hours and then switches over to chunking with bait at night. Targeted species include Yellowfin Tuna, Bigeye Tuna, Albacore, Mahi, Swordfish, Wahoo, Blue Marlin, and more. This trip tends to typically fall around 28 to 30 hours. You'll step aboard Captain Jim’s gorgeous 32’ Topaz sportfisher, powered by twin Caterpillar engines pushing 640 HP. Topaz boats are notorious for their comfy rides. Being safe on the water is the main priority of Captain Jim. His boat is equipped with an ACR Class 1 Eperb, First Aid Bag, Throw Ring, Lifejackets, and even a Switlik Solas A Life Raft. Not only does he have top-of-the-line safety features, but he has all the electronics you could want, including a color fish-finder, 64-mile radar, chart plotter, spotlights, and one hell of a stereo. The cockpit and cabin were built completely custom with insulated fish boxes, pompanette seats, LED lighting, a teal dinette, a bathroom, and even A/C! Once you book your excursion, Captain Jim will meet you to get you started on your exciting trip. Full and half-day excursions are available and are inclusive of gas. All you need to bring is a Montauk saltwater fishing license and your own food, drinks, a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Jim will take care of the rest! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Montauk

Overnight Canyon Trip

NEW
33 ft 1 - 5 People From $5,000
Fishing in Oswego
Fishing in Oswego
Fishing in Oswego
trip description for Trophy Trout and Salmon Trolling in Oswego

If you've been searching for some action on the water of the Great Lakes, look no further. Captain Jim has 32 years of experience on Lake Ontario chasing Salmon and Trout, and he knows how to get you on a big one! He targets King (Chinook) Salmon, Coho Salmon, and various species of Trout. Make sure you bring your A-game, because these fish love to put up a fight and will give you a run for your money. Captain Jim will take you out on his 31' Baha Cruiser, a perfect boat for fishing the Great Lakes. His two 350-HP Volvo Penta engines will take you anywhere the fish might be on the lake, and with his GPS and fishfinder, you're bound to get some huge bites! With an air conditioned cabin, restroom, bed, and kitchen, you're sure to stay comfortable for your entire trip. When it comes to tackle, Jim will supply you with the latest equipment from Shimano, Ugly Stik, and Shakespeare. Once you bag your fish for the day, Jim will fillet them up for you so you can take them home to enjoy with friends and family. All you need to bring along with you is any food or drinks your party may want while on the water and a valid fishing license and you'll be ready to reel in the record setters! Read More

Lake Fishing Trip in Oswego

Trophy Trout And Salmon Trolling

NEW
31 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Port Washington
Fishing in Port Washington
Fishing in Port Washington
trip description for Striper Trolling Trip in Port Washington

There's exciting action waiting for you in the costal waters off Long Island! On this trip, Captain Stephen will take you out trolling for Striped Bass, Bluefish, and Flounder—all great fish for beginners and pros alike. When a big Striper grabs your line, get ready for a fight! They love to take long runs and can spool a reel in a hurry. Captain Stephen's 31' Eastern is the perfect boat for this trip. Holding up to 6 anglers and equipped with a 330-HP Volvo engine, plus a GPS navigation system, fishfinder, a more, there's no better vessel out there. She also features a restroom, kitchen, A/C, and refrigerator to keep you and your party comfortable through the entire trip. For your trip with Captain Stephen, you're encouraged to bring along your own angling equipment. If you don't have your own, Stephen can provide you with equipment for a separate fee. Stephen will provide you with drinks and snacks as well as your fishing license for the day. Get out there and see what Long Island has to offer! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Port Washington

Striper Trolling Trip

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Port Washington
Fishing in Port Washington
Fishing in Port Washington
trip description for Big Fish With Your Big Group in Port Washington

Get out on the waters of Long Island Sound and enjoy a great day of open-boat fishing on a trip with us! These trips are perfect for families and big groups—we can hold up to 15 fishing passengers, or 25 non-fishing passengers if you're just looking for a beautiful cruise. On these trips, you'll chase a variety of well-known East Coast gamefish, including Flounder, Striped Bass, Blackfish (also known as Tautog), Bluefish, and more! Thes fish are a blast to catch, and great table fare as well. If you want to take your catch home, the crew is more than happy to fillet and package your catch for you. You'll be aboard our 50' sportfisher with an enclosed, climate-controlled cabin, two decks, and all the amenities you could hope for. She's powered by twin diesel engines with a combined 1500 horsepower, so you'll waste no time getting to the best fishing spots. Whether your group has a lot of fishing experience or a little, these trips are super fun for all involved! Your captain will bring along everything you need, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you need to remember is proper clothing, sunscreen, a cooler for your catch, and some snacks and drinks! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Port Washington

Big Fish With Your Big Group

NEW
46 ft 1 - 15 People From $1,750
Fishing in Hampton Bays
Fishing in Hampton Bays
Fishing in Hampton Bays
trip description for Shinnecock Inshore Slam in Hampton Bays

Get out there on the beautiful waters surrounding Shinnecock, NY with Captain Peter, an expert guide and longtime professional fisherman who knows the area like the back of his hand. You'll be chasing every species that the East Coast inshore has to offer, including Striped Bass, Bluefish, Porgy, Fluke, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to go after such a wide range of fighting fish, eating fish, and picture-worthy trophies! Captain Peter knows some of the best spots, and he'll put you right on top of your target. He has a variety of tools at his disposal, from light tackle for crazy fights to bottom fishing gear for hauling up heavyweights. On the day of the trip, you'll head out aboard Captain Peter's 40' Topaz sportfisher. She's a boat built for great fishing as well as a relaxing and comfortable day on the ocean. Captain Peter will bring everything you need to reel in a prize, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. To maximize your experience, bring polarized sunglasses, proper clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and most importantly, your Fishing License. Get ready to have a blast! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Hampton Bays

Shinnecock Inshore Slam

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $775
Fishing in Hampton Bays
Fishing in Hampton Bays
Fishing in Hampton Bays
trip description for Overnight Northeast Canyons in Hampton Bays

Captain Peter specializes in fishing the Northeast Canyons, from 75 To 100 Miles out!! The Northeast Canyons off the coast of Montauk, NY, are one of America's most unique and productive fisheries. Thousands of years ago, when sea levels where far lower than they are today, rivers cut deep channels into the continental shelf, forming steep-walled canyons. Today, these canyons provide an unrivalled opportunity for adventurous saltwater fishermen to catch huge sportfish, including Swordfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Bluefin Tuna, Mako Sharks, Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and more! If you've never had the chance to experience this incredible environment, this trip has your name on it! Captain Peter has been successfully fishing this area for over forty years, and there's no better big-game captain out there. On this trip, you'll put several different techniques to work, using different types of trolling to hook different species. Every single one of the fish out here are the real deal: hard-fighting, tough, and lightning fast! Some, especially Swordfish, marlin, and Sharks, can even be dangerous once they're on deck. These trips are completely customizable as well. Whether you want to fish Hudson Canyon, The Dip, The 100-Square, or even Block Canyon. Captain Peter is a master of them all. Captain Peter will game plan with you before departing to go over which locations have the hotest bites for specific species so you can make an informed decision on where'd you'd like to fish! You'll get out there aboard Captain Peter's 40' Topaz sportfisher—an ideal boat for these waters. She's a fishing machine, and has a comfortable cabin to ensure that your trip is as relaxing as it is fun. She also comes equipped with a generator, a galley with a refrigerator, a microwave, and more. Get out there and have a blast! Captain Peter will provide everything you need for a terrific trip, including all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle. All you should bring is proper clothing, a hat, sun protection, a cooler with snacks and drinks, and a good attitude. In the case of extreme fuel prices, this trip may require an additional fuel surcharge. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Hampton Bays

Overnight Northeast Canyons

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $4,700

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a fishing trip in New York

What are the best river fishing trips in New York?

Why should I book a river fishing trip in New York with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 river trips in New York, and the most popular trips in the area are Morning/Afternoon Trip (6 hrs) guided by Ryan, Niagara River Fishing Charters guided by Joseph, and Full Day Fishing Charter guided by Matthew.

Our guides in New York are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3490 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly river guides / fishing lessons in New York? Check out our beginner and family friendly river guides in New York.

What types of river fishing trips are common in New York?

The most commonly sought after species for river fishing are: 1. brown trout, 2. lake trout, 3. chinook salmon, 4. largemouth bass, and 5. rainbow trout.

The most common fishing techniques in New York are light tackle fishing, trolling, and fly fishing but jigging and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much does a New York river fishing trip cost?

Prices for river fishing in New York can range anywhere from about $420 to $675, but the average price for a half day trip for river fishing in New York is $625. The average price for a full day trip for river fishing in New York is $507.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for river fishing in New York?

The most popular season for river fishing in New York is spring, and most anglers book their trips 82 days in advance.

Do I need a New York fishing license and what are the bag limits in New York?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in New York, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in New York. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in New York.

What is river in New York all about?

New York's rivers are integral to the state's geography, history, and recreational offerings, spanning a diverse range of landscapes from the rugged Adirondack Mountains to the picturesque Hudson Valley and the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes region. The Hudson River, one of the most iconic waterways in the state, flows south from the Adirondacks through the Hudson Valley, offering scenic vistas, historic sites, and abundant recreational opportunities. Anglers flock to the Hudson for its diverse fish populations, including striped bass, sturgeon, and various species of trout, all thriving in its tidal and freshwater sections.

In northern New York, the St. Lawrence River forms part of the border with Canada, boasting expansive waters dotted with islands and bays. This mighty river supports a thriving fishery for species such as northern pike, muskellunge, and walleye, drawing anglers seeking trophy-sized catches amid stunning riverfront landscapes. Techniques vary widely, from trolling with large plugs and spoons to casting with live bait or artificial lures, depending on the target species and prevailing conditions.

New York's rivers also play a crucial role in transportation, commerce, and recreation throughout the state. The Finger Lakes region, known for its namesake lakes formed by glacial activity, features connecting rivers and streams that support a robust ecosystem of trout, bass, and panfish. These waters provide year-round fishing opportunities, with ice fishing becoming popular in winter months. Whether for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, New York's rivers offer something for everyone, reflecting the state's rich natural heritage and recreational diversity.

What are the most popular months to go river in New York?

New York's rivers experience distinct seasonal changes that influence both recreational activities and natural rhythms throughout the year. Spring marks the awakening of river activities as snowmelt and spring rains swell river flows, creating optimal conditions for fishing and water sports. Anglers eagerly await the opening of trout season on rivers like the Delaware, Catskill, and Beaverkill, known for their abundant populations of brown and rainbow trout. Fly fishing enthusiasts flock to these clear, cold waters, using techniques such as nymphing and dry fly fishing to entice trout in the early season currents.

As summer unfolds, New York's rivers become hubs of recreational activity, with families and outdoor enthusiasts taking to the water for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. The Hudson River, flowing from the Adirondacks through the scenic Hudson Valley to New York City, offers a variety of paddling experiences, from tranquil stretches ideal for beginners to more challenging rapids in the Hudson Highlands. Anglers shift their focus to warmwater species like bass, walleye, and panfish, enjoying the longer days and warmer temperatures on rivers such as the St. Lawrence and Finger Lakes tributaries.

Autumn brings a serene transformation to New York's rivers as temperatures cool and foliage bursts into vibrant colors along riverbanks. Anglers return to the rivers, taking advantage of the quieter waters and active fish before winter sets in. The Salmon River, renowned for its fall salmon runs, attracts anglers seeking trophy-sized catches as these fish migrate upstream to spawn. Trout fishing remains productive on rivers like the Upper Delaware and Ausable, where the changing leaves provide a picturesque backdrop for casting lines into crystal-clear pools. As the season progresses, New York's rivers offer peaceful retreats for hiking, birdwatching, and reflecting on the natural beauty of autumn along their tranquil shores.

What techniques are popular for river in New York?

New York's rivers offer a diverse array of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, each characterized by unique landscapes and recreational opportunities. For anglers, the state's rivers are renowned for their trout fishing. The Catskill region, including famous rivers like the Delaware, Beaverkill, and Esopus Creek, attracts fly fishermen from around the world seeking brown and rainbow trout. Techniques such as dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer fishing are popular here, with anglers wading through riffles and pools to tempt these elusive fish in the clear, cold waters.

In northern New York, the St. Lawrence River provides a contrast with its expansive waters and diverse fishery. Anglers target species like northern pike, muskellunge, and walleye, using techniques such as trolling with large plugs and spoons or casting with live bait and artificial lures. This river's scenic beauty, dotted with islands and offering breathtaking views of the Thousand Islands region, enhances the fishing experience, making it a popular destination for both local anglers and visitors alike.

Beyond fishing, New York's rivers support a variety of recreational activities year-round. The Hudson River, flowing from the Adirondacks through the Hudson Valley to the Atlantic Ocean, offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and sightseeing. Its tidal sections near New York City provide unique urban waterfront experiences, while further north, the river winds through historic towns and scenic landscapes ideal for outdoor adventures. Whether seeking the tranquility of trout fishing in remote mountain streams or the excitement of casting for pike in a majestic river setting, New York's rivers cater to a wide range of outdoor interests, reflecting the state's rich natural diversity and recreational heritage.

What species are popular for river in New York?

New York's rivers offer a rich diversity of fish species that cater to anglers of all preferences and skill levels throughout the year. Trout fishing is particularly celebrated in regions like the Catskills and Adirondacks, where rivers such as the Delaware, Beaverkill, and Ausable are renowned for their populations of brown and rainbow trout. Fly fishing reigns supreme here, with anglers using delicate casts of dry flies and nymphs to tempt these wary fish in the swift currents and clear waters of mountain streams and rivers.

For anglers seeking larger quarry, New York's rivers also boast excellent opportunities for catching warmwater species like bass, walleye, and northern pike. The St. Lawrence River, known for its expansive waters and picturesque Thousand Islands region, supports a thriving fishery for northern pike and muskellunge, drawing anglers who enjoy the challenge of targeting these toothy predators with trolling techniques and large artificial lures. Bass fishing enthusiasts find ample opportunities on rivers like the Hudson and Finger Lakes tributaries, using a variety of techniques from casting topwater lures to jigging near underwater structures.

In addition to trout and warmwater species, New York's rivers provide seasonal opportunities for anglers targeting migratory fish such as salmon and steelhead. The Salmon River in Oswego County is renowned for its fall salmon runs, attracting anglers from across the country who flock to its banks to catch these powerful fish as they return from the ocean to spawn. Techniques such as drift fishing with salmon eggs or swinging flies on a spey rod are popular methods for targeting these prized fish during their annual migration. Whether casting for trout in pristine mountain streams or battling salmon in powerful river currents, New York's rivers offer a wealth of fishing experiences that capture the essence of outdoor adventure in the Empire State.

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The Best Places to Fish in New York

Other Types of Fishing in New York

How are fishing conditions in New York?

View New York Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All River Trips in New York