Steelhead Streams in Western New York
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DEC Region 9 offers steelhead anglers an abundance of opportunities from the mighty lower Niagara River to Cattaraugus Creek, one of the premier streams in the state, to other smaller streams. These streams offer high quality lake-run steelhead fishing from November through April. The majority of the steelhead in these streams are the result of smolt stockings by DEC. There is some natural reproduction of steelhead that adds to the fishery, particularly in the Cattaraugus Creek system. Studies are ongoing to evaluate the contribution of these wild fish to the angler catch. Projects are being planned and implemented to increase the contribution of wild steelhead. For detailed information on steelhead management, migratory runs, fishing tackle and techniques see the Steelhead Fishing in Lake Erie Tributaries and Lake Ontario Tributaries pages.