Fly Fishing West Canada Creek in New York

Are you planning a vacation or a visit to Central New York state? If so, make sure you stop by West Canada Creek, which is easily accessible from, and located along Route 28. Averaging 80 feet across, West Canada Creek offers year-round trout fishing with excellent quality hatches and diverse water. Primarily a brown trout river, it's been known to offer fish 16 to 18+ inches on a regular basis, although the average Browns found here are 12 to 14 inches.

The Trophy Section of West Canada Creek is probably the best place to start. It begins at Trenton Falls and flows for approximately two and a half miles to where Cincinnati Creek flows in. Consisting of large deep quiet pools, swift stretches of riffles, and pocket water, this section is a delight for the well-rounded fly rodder. A large selection of flies, ranging from size 20 dries to size 6 streamers, will help increase your odds here. Aside from its good Mayfly, Caddis, and Stonefly content, the river also supports a large number of baitfish.

When wading on West Canada Creek, caution is required. Be sure to look for rising water that results from the dam at Trenton Falls; it's turned on to generate power, with no set schedule. Water flows of 400-700 cfs (cubic feet per second) are ideal, although fishing can still be good in higher water, even above 1000 cfs. If you're there when power is being generated and the water is high, try changing over to a streamer, or fish nymphs in some of the softer seams along the bank. During the times the dam is shut down and water recedes, the river takes on definition. Feeding lanes will form, and it's a great time to look for trout to set up where food is funneled through a tight lane. This also is known as a "scum line" or "feeding lane".

Access is readily available along Route 28, and you'll find many spots to pull over and try your luck. Keep in mind that only the Trophy Section is open during the winter. Winter fishing is best when using nymphs in and around soft seams, where trout can relax in the cold water temperatures and gently intercept incoming food. If you're planning to strip streamers, fish slow and remember that trout are more lethargic in the cold water temperatures.

As spring approaches, water temperatures rise and high water is present, so streamers such as Matukas, Wooly Buggers, and Black Ghosts work well. It's also a good idea to try large Stonefly Nymphs in the hard pockets and riffles. By the end of April, dries start to hit the water. During early spring, Hendricksons and Little Black Stones are your best bet. As spring wears on, dry fly fishing gets even better. Check the Mayfly Hatch Cart for the appearance of future bugs. The next time you're in Central New York, be sure to get a map of West Canada Creek, so you can enjoy the fly fishing it offers.