St. Lawrence County Anglers Guide

’GAUnIgDlEer sST. LAWRENCE COUNTY, NY, USA®I LOVE NEW YORK logo is a registered trademark/service mark of the NYS Dept. of Economic Development, used with permission.

Welcome … What’s Out There?to St. Lawrence County, NY, USA Muskellunge, tiger muskies,Every freshwater species found in New York northern pike, walleye,State can be found in the more than 200 rivers,lakes, ponds and streams in St. Lawrence County. smallmouth bass, largemouthAngler destinations vary widely, too, from village bass, brook trout, brown trout,waterfronts where kids bobber fish for yellow perch lake trout, rainbow trout, splake,to wilderness ponds where flyfishers make precise landlocked salmon, Chinookpresentations to wild brook trout. salmon, carp, catfish, yellow perch, black crappie, rock bass, bluegills,The diversity of our waters and our fish is why pumpkinseeds, white bass, fallfish,many anglers call the St. Lawrence River Valley the suckers, gar pike, freshwater drum,Fishing Capital of the World. bowfins… and more…We hope to see you soon!2

st. lawrence N FRANKLINcounty COUNTY WEangler’s guide MAP SFort Drum to Ogdensburg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 milesSyracuse to Chippewa Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 miles CANADAAlbany to Cranberry Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . 174 milesPlattsburgh to Massena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 milesOttawa to Ogdensburg-Prescott. . . . . . . . . 92 kmInternational BridgeMontreal to Seaway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 kmInternational Bridge, Massena JEFFERSON COUNTY 3

25 Experiences 16. Catching a limit of black crappies at Black Lake Angler’s Dozen1. Tossing a plastic worm for trophy largemouth 17. Surface fishing for Adirondack largemouth bass at MUSKELLUNGE: St. Lawrence River, Grasse River, bass at Black Lake Lows Lake Oswegatchie River, Horseshoe Lake (tigers), and Carry Falls Reservoir (tigers)2. Trolling deep shoals for monster muskellunge on 18. Throwing plastics for largemouths at the catch-and- the St. Lawrence River release Tooley Pond SMALLMOUTH BASS: St. Lawrence River, Black Lake, Cranberry Lake, Blake Reservoir, Oswegatchie3. Hiking into the Five Ponds Wilderness Area in 19. Fly fishing for muskies on the Grasse River River search of wild brook trout 20. Floating down the Oswegatchie River in search of LARGEMOUTH BASS: Black Lake, Lows Lake, Grass4. Casting minnow plugs for bronzebacks at walleyes Lake, Yellow Lake, and Tooley Pond Cranberry Lake 21. Casting for stocked browns at Plumb Brook WALLEYES: Stark Reservoir, Carry Falls Reservoir, St.5. Jigging for walleyes on a Raquette River reservoir Lawrence River, Black Lake, and Oswegatchie River 22. Setting tip-ups for trout and salmon at Lake Ozonia6. Trolling flies on a sinking line for Star Lake’s NORTHERN PIKE: St. Lawrence River, Black Lake, landlocked salmon 23. Baitfishing St. Lawrence River bays for limits of Yellow Lake, Grass Lake, and Oswegatchie River spring perch7. Drifting a Lake Clear Wabbler and worm for CARP: St. Lawrence River banks and islands rainbows at Trout Lake 24. Tossing spinnerbaits for tiger muskies at Horseshoe Lake CRAPPIES: Black Lake, St. Lawrence River,8. Fishing live minnows for Sylvia Lake’s large lake Oswegatchie River, Blake Reservoir, and Higley Flow trout 25. Fly fishing for rainbows on the year-round-angling Reservoir section of the St. Regis River9. Shore fishing with worms for spring bullheads in LAKE TROUT: Sylvia Lake, Trout Lake, Massawepie a St. Lawrence River bay Lake, and Lake Ozonia (splake)10. Setting baits for catfish In the Oswegatchie River RAINBOW TROUT: St. Regis River, Plumb Brook, Star Lake, Trout Lake, and Sylvia Lake11. Ice fishing for big pike at Chippewa Bay BROOK TROUT: Cranberry Lake, Ponds in Five12. Wading heavy pocket water for brown trout on Ponds Wilderness Area, Ponds in Massawepie Area, the St. Regis River Big Trout Pond, and headwaters of the Oswegatchie River13. Fly fishing for brook trout on the catch-and- release section of the West Branch BROWN TROUT: St. Regis River, Grasse River, West Branch of St. Regis, South Branch of the Grasse, and14. Canoeing to the headwaters of the Oswegatchie Oswegatchie River for wild brook trout YELLOW PERCH: St. Lawrence River, Lake Ozonia,15. Setting baits for world-class carp along the Black Lake, Raquette River Reservoirs banks of the St. Lawrence River 4

Catch & Release; “WEIGH” WITH A RULER season in New York State for sturgeon, and possessionSelective For panfish, bass, trout, pike, muskie and walleye, estimate of the species is prohibited. All incidental catches shouldHarvest your catch’s weight by getting its length then later be released immediately. Check the DEC website, checking the chart on the DEC website (http://www. www.dec.ny.gov, for listings on all threatened andAnglers are encouraged to release all muskellunge taken dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9222.html ). No ruler handy? Before endangered fish in New York State.from the St. Lawrence County waters. For other species, releasing it, quickly mark your fish’s length on a fishinganglers are encouraged to practice selective harvest. This rod, boat seat, newspaper – anything handy that can be space inVADERSpractice calls upon anglers to release the larger fish of any measured later with a ruler or tape.species and to keep smaller ones for eating. By releasing Anglers are encouraged to help preventlarge fish, which are typically the most productive Regulations the spread of aquatic invasive speciesbreeders, anglers are helping to ensure fish populations like zebra mussels, gobies, and waterfor future generations. For those anglers who want to “put Before fishing any St. Lawrence County water, anglers are milfoil, to name just a few. NYS DEC hasa fish on the wall,” reproduction mounts are available from advised to consult the current regulations guide, usually easy-to-follow “check-clean-drain-dry-taxidermists across the county. available at local municipal clerk offices, and online at disinfect” tips, as well as the most current www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7917.html. information on unwanted invaders: visit www.dec.ny.gov/Tips for Releasing Fish animals/50121.html or call or write the DEC• Avoid over-fighting the fish so that it becomes stressed. For the most part, the Statewide Regulations apply, but there are significant exceptions. Bureau of Fisheries• If possible, unhook the fish in the water. 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233 For example, Special Great Lakes Regulations apply to the 518-402-8924.• Carry needle nose pliers and other unhooking tools to St. Lawrence River because this flow is directly connected facilitate getting the hook out. to Lake Ontario. Also, special bass and muskie regulations KEY CONTACTS are in effect for the county’s small rivers. Black Lake, too, St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce• If a photo is to be taken, have the camera ready before has special regulations for its bass as well as walleyes. 315-386-4000/877-228-7810 removing the fish from the water. Other exceptions include a number of catch-and-release, www.northcountryguide.com artificial-lure-only waters, and there are various waters• Hold the fish by its tail, and support the midsection with open to year-round trout fishing. Please be a law-abiding FISHCAP the other hand until the fish swims off on its own. and ethical angler by consulting and following the www.fishcap.net | [email protected] for questions regulations listed in the current guide. New York State Department of Environmental “A gamefish is too valuable Conservation (NYS DEC) to catch only once.” www.dec.ny.gov | 315-785-2239 LEE WULFF A NOTE ABOUT LAKE STURGEON The DEC initiated a lake sturgeon recovery program in St. Lawrence County waters in 1994. Since then, thousands of sturgeon have been stocked in local waters. Evidence of the program’s success is the increasing number of incidental catches reported by anglers, particularly bait fishers. Anglers should note that there is no open 5

Lakes and Ponds HORSESHOE LAKE as spinnerbaits, surface baits, and tipped jigs work well. Horseshoe Lake is the county’s destination for tiger Twenty-six campsites dot the lake’s shoreline, and the lake isSt. Lawrence County has lake and pond destinations to fulfill muskellunge. Nearly 9,000 tigers have been stocked accessible via a canoe trip from the Bog River.any angler’s dreams. Some waters hold warm water species, since 1997. This 384- acre lake also has largemouth bass,some hold trout and salmon, and others are home to both smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Local anglers suspend NORWOOD PONDwarm water and cold water species. Waters vary in size from a live minnow below a bobber for muskies, but casting Norwood Pond is a Raquette River reservoir located on10-acre ponds to lakes that extend for 20 miles, and options spinnerbaits and surface (check spacing) lures also work the southwest side of the village of Norwood. This 352-vary from hikes to wilderness brook trout ponds to drive-up well. Many tigers are taken as incidental catches by anglers acre impoundment offers fishing for northern pike,access to a lake with tiger muskellunge. targeting largemouth bass. Look for tiger muskies along smallmouth bass, walleyes, and panfish, especially weedlines. Anglers access the lake via three cartop launches jumbo perch. The lake’s depths average 10 feet, and theWARM WATER LAKES AND PONDS located off Route 421, and 16 primitive campsites dot the shoreline contains a mixture of developments, forest andBLACK LAKE lake’s south and west shorelines. farmland. A paved village ramp provides access. Ranked as the county’s top warm water lake, Black Lake hasreceived national recognition for its outstanding largemouth LOWS LAKE TOOLEY PONDand smallmouth bass fishing. Furthermore, the lake has Lows Lake, sometimes called the Bog River Flow, holds The 46-acre Tooley Pond has a variety of panfish, but thefirst-rate angling for northern pike and walleye, and the some brook trout, but this 2,845-acre lake is essentially water is essentially a destination for largemouth bass.panfishing is superb. For more detailed information on Black a largemouth bass destination. Lows is a shallow lake Restrictions call for anglers to use artificial lures only. TooleyLake see page 22 of this guide. averaging five feet, and largemouth habitat includes Pond is a catch-and-release water, so anglers can expect to shoreline cover and large bogs. Traditional offerings such encounter some huge bass here. There is cartop access off the Tooley Pond Road. HUCKLEBERRY AND WOLF PONDS The 4,316-acre Wolf Lake State Forest located west of the village of Edwards offers a unique opportunity for anglers who are willing to carry a canoe or float tube along a wooded trail. Such efforts open the possibility for catching big largemouth bass in the backwoods at Huckleberry and Wolf lakes, both of which have lean-tos. Spinnerbaits, surface lures, and plastic worms will entice strikes from bass here. Look for information on Wolf Lake State Forest trails on the DEC website or call the Region 6 main office in Watertown. YELLOW, GRASS, AND PLEASANT LAKES Yellow, Grass, and Pleasant lakes are part of the Indian River Lakes system. With a maximum depth of 13 feet, Yellow Lake is the shallowest of the three. This 480-acre lake offers good fishing for northern pike, largemouth bass, and panfish. Cartop access exists at an undeveloped state site. Grass Lake also has northern pike, largemouths, and panfish, but additional species include walleyes and smallmouth bass. A developed state launch at this 320-acre lake provides access for small boats. Pleasant Lake contains the same species as Grass Lake, and a town-owned boat launch provides access to this 200-acre lake. Prime fish-holding areas on all three lakes are weedlines, shoreline cover, and shoreline dropoffs. 6

OZONIA, TROUT, STAR, SYLVIA, ANDMASSAWEPIE LAKESThese lakes are essentially trout waters, but anglers shouldnot overlook the warm water fishing here. Lake Ozoniahas smallmouth bass and panfish; yellow perch areparticularly abundant. Trout Lake has largemouth andsmallmouth bass as well as panfish. This lake usually hostsa kids’ rock bass derby each summer. Star Lake also haslargemouths, smallmouths, and panfish, while SylviaLake has both species of bass. Massawepie Lake has ahealthy population of big bronzebacks. On all these lakes,look for fish along weed edges, shoreline cover, tributarymouths, and rocky areas.TROUT LAKESLAKE OZONIASpecial regulations allow for year-round angling on LakeOzonia. This 397- acre lake receives annual stockings ofrainbow trout and splake. In recent years, Lake Ozonia hasalso been stocked with lake trout, landlocked salmon,and two-year-old browns. A DEC cartop launch located offthe Lake Ozonla Road offers year-round access. The launchsite has a ten­horsepower restriction on outboard motors.Whether anglers use a gas or electric-powered motor,trolling is the preferred fishing technique. Spring andautumn produce the best results, and prime trolling spotsinclude shorelines, bays, and points. Some anglers troll flieson a sinking fly line, some troll small minnow plugs usinglead core line, and others use monofilament line to troll LakeClear wabbler and worm rigs.TROUT LAKETrout Lake has a reputation for offering quality rainbowtrout and lake trout fishing. Every year the DEC stocksthousands of rainbows and lakers in this deep-water lake.Landlocked salmon have also been stocked in this 371-acre water, and special regulations allow for year-roundangling. Public access is carry-in from state land, but there isa paved launch by the County Route 19 Bridge that boaterscan use for a small fee.Because of its low elevation, the ice typically goes out ofTrout Lake earlier than it does in other nearby Adirondacklakes. This makes Trout Lake an angler favorite in early spring.Trout can be found throughout the lake, but the northernhalf has the better fish-holding structure. 7

BROOK TROUT LAKES AND PONDS Five Ponds Wilderness Area Bordering the southern portion of Cranberry Lake, the 107,230-acre Five Ponds Wilderness is home to numerous brook trout ponds. A network of well marked trails throughout the wilderness leads anglers to these waters, which promise a remote experience for brookies. Opportunities exist for wild, stocked, and holdover trout. These trout are accessible to anglers who are willing to do some hiking and to carry in a canoe or inflatable raft. Among the brook trout ponds are Cat Mountain, Clear (Hedgehog), Cowhorn, Darning Needle, Fishpole, Glasby, Nicks, Olmstead, Simmons, and Spectacle. Anglers will find lean-tos and designated camping areas throughout the Five Ponds Wilderness Area. Check www.fishcap.net or the DEC website for details on pond locations, trails, hiking distances, and camping opportunities. Grass Pond offers a unique experience in the area because the pond is accessible via water. Anglers can reach GrassSYLVIA LAKE the fish are active and the campers are inactive. AccessSylvia Lake resembles Trout Lake in several ways. Both are requiring a 75-yard carry is available just of State Route 3.deep-water lakes; both hold populations of rainbows and Trolling flies, wabblers and worms, and minnow plugs is thelakers and both see early ice-out because of low elevation. most popular technique, but drifting a jig and minnow orSylvia Lake has been known to yield lake trout weighing a spinner and worm is also effective. Because of numerousmore than 20 pounds. Annual stockings at this 314-acre bays and arms, anglers can find fishable water here even onlake number 3,000 rainbow trout measuring nine inches. windy days. Star Lake is open to year-round angling.Since 75 percent of the lake is privately developed, mostanglers prefer fishing during the quiet times of spring and MASSAWEPIE LAKEfall when shoreline dropoffs in the 10- to 40-foot range are Over the years, Massawepie Lake has been stocked withproductive. Bait fishers use live minnows for lake trout and various species including lake trout, rainbow trout,worms for rainbows. Cartop access is available from a spur brown trout, and landlocked salmon. This 437-acre lakeroad off State Route 812. falls under the Massawepie Conservation Easement, and certain restrictions apply. For example, the use of baitfish isSTAR LAKE prohibited, and the lake is closed to the public from JuneLake trout and brown trout have been stocked in Star 15 through August 31 so that the area may be used for BoyLake, but this 208-acre water is essentially a rainbow trout Scout camp. Trout fishers concentrate their efforts on theand landlocked salmon fishery. Annual stockings number lake’s numerous points, shoreline dropoffs, and two tributary2,000 rainbows measuring nine inches and 1,000 salmon mouths. Cartop access is available from two points alongmeasuring 6.5 inches. Because nearly three quarters of the Massawepie Road.the lake has private development, anglers find that thebest fishing opportunities are in the spring and fall when 8

Pond by canoeing the Bog River and Lows Lake. The 122- ALLEN POND AND MORE…acre pond has native brook trout, and catching a wild Allen Pond promises good action for brook trout. Specialbrook trout is the essence of an Adirondack wilderness regulations call for the use of artificial Iures only, and allexperience. Grass Pond has five designated campsites fishing is catch and release. Gas-powered motors are noton its shoreline. A free DEC brochure, “Bog River Flow,” allowed. Six hundred trout are stocked annually, and accessprovides more detailed information about Grass Pond and is from a trail off the Tooley Pond Road, within the Town ofsurrounding waters. Clare.MASSAWEPIE AREA Other ponds holding brook trout are Blue and Long in theThe Massawepie Area was opened to anglers in 1998. Brook Town of Colton; Round in the Town of Fine; Lilypad andtrout ponds in this area include Boottree, Deer, Horseshoe, Long in the Town of Parishville; and Black in the Town ofPine, and Townline. Except for Pine Pond, which requires Piercefield.a paddle across the lower end of Massawepie Lake, thesebrook trout waters have roadside access. WILD FOREST BROOK TROUT PONDS Numerous brook trout ponds are scattered throughout St.The Massawepie Area once produced the state record Lawrence County’s wild forests. Three first­rate ponds in thebrook trout, a 4-pound, 13-ounce brookie caught by Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest are Bridge Brook, Big Trout,Canton angler Rick Mace. Spin fishers use spinners, spoons, and Little Trout. Bridge Brook is accessible from a trail onor wabbler and worms while fly fishers troll their favorite flies the west shore of Tupper Lake, and this 167-acre pond seeson a sinking line. an annual stocking of 2,000 brookies. Big Trout covers 157 acres, and anglers access the pond from trails off CountySpecial regulations are in effect for the Massawepie Area. Routes 10 and 421. Big Trout receives an annual stockingThe ponds are closed to the public from June 15 through of 3,500 brookies while Little Trout is stocked with 1,200August 31 for Boy Scout activities. The use of baitfish or gas- trout each year. The 45-acre Little Trout is accessible via apowered motors is prohibited, and camping is allowed only bushwhack trail from Big Trout.at designated sites. Streeter and Round lakes are good bets for brookies in the Aldrich Pond State Forest. The 68-acre Streeter Lake is stocked with 2,300 brook trout annually. Round Lake has 78 acres, and a trail from Aldrich provides access. This lake sees a yearly stocking of 1,400 brook trout. In the Cranberry Lake Wild Forest, 17-acre Curtis Pond and 18-acre Dog Pond offer brook trout opportunities. Each sees a yearling stocking of 500 brookies. Clear Pond (Vigor) in the White Hill Wild Forest and Church Pond in the Raquette Boreal Wild Forest also hold brook trout populations. Clear Pond is 36 acres in size, and annual stockings number 1,000. A trail from Clear Pond Road provides access. Church Pond covers 25 acres, and 400 brookies are stocked here annually. A state trail off State Rte. 56 provides lean-tos and designated camping areas throughout the Five Ponds Wilderness Area. 9

St. Lawrence ANGLER’S PARADISE catch muskles and carp that weigh 30 to 40 pounds and up,River The St. Lawrence is an angler’s paradise. Opportunities exist and 55-pound-plus individuals of each species are known to for anglers of all levels and interests, from those who want to swim in the river. For more information on muskie fishing, seeFlowing for 700 miles from Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean, catch a few panfish for dinner to those who want to pursue (pages 13); likewise, for information on carp angling, consultthe St. Lawrence is truly one of nature’s wonders. world class muskies. (pages 16) of this guide.The majestic river ranks as the largest east-west river in The river’s personality varies from narrow, currented stretches NORTHERN PIKENorth America, and the scenery alone makes any outing to wide, lake-like expanses, and prime fishh­ olding structures The northern pike is the river’s“fish for all seasons.”Whenhere a worthwhile venture. Flowing across the top of St. abound along the entire river. Popular species among the season opens in May, pike can be found in any bay, butLawrence County, this river forms the border between New anglers include northern pike, walleyes, smallmouth the larger bays will hold more fish. Popular offerings includeYork State and the Province of Ontario. Contrary to popular bass, largemouth bass, muskies, carp, yellow perch, and a minnow below a bobber, bucktail jigs with a minnow orbelief, though, the international border does not run straight bullheads, but the river also has crappies, pumpkinseeds, plastic tipping, spoons, spinners, and minnow plugs. A slowthrough the middle of the river but is very irregular, and at rock bass, catfish, coho and chinook salmon, lake trout, presentation is critical to early-season success.times actually extends very close to either mainland. Since a brown trout, rainbow trout, eels, suckers, drum, andCanadian license is required to fish Ontario waters, boaters other species. Most bays will hold pike throughout the summer, but theseare advised to consult river charts – which also indicate shoals fish are the smaller ones. From June through September,and other navigational hazards. THE RIVER’S BIG FISH look for larger pike along weedlines and around deep-water Muskies and carp are the St. Lawrence’s“big fish,”and the river structure at a bay’s outside edge. Casting tipped jigs or trolling offers world-class angling for both species. Every year anglers deep-diving plugs are the most effective techniques. Three prime locations for autumn pike are points, weedlines, and openings in the weeds. Pike hotspots include Chippewa Bay, the bay at Jacques Cartier State Park near Morristown, Wheathouse Bay and the enclosed bays at the head of Galop Island near Ogdensburg, Whitehouse Bay and Coles Creek Bay near Waddington, and Wilson Hill Island bays and the bay at Massena Town Beach near Massena. WALLEYES Walleyes rank near the top of the river’s most popular species list. The walleye population has increased dramatically during the past several decades thanks to habitat improvements in Ontario and a stocking program undertaken jointly by local private groups and Region Six DEC fisheries personnel. Over the course of the season, schools of walleyes migrate from location to location in search of feed. Check local fishing forecasts and at area bait shops for information on current hotspots. In May walleyes are typically found near spawning tributaries and on adjacent structures in the main river. Summer walleyes favor mainland points and dropoffs, island points and dropoffs, and mid-river shoals. Autumn fish gather in large schools in deep water adjacent to summer structures. 10

Productive techniques include drifting crawler harnesses,casting tipped jigs, and trolling deep-diving plugs. Trollersoften experience their best fishing after dark.Traditional walleye haunts include Chippewa Point,American Island, near the Ogdensburg InternationalBridge, Iroquois Dam, Ogden Island, Croil Islands, LongSault Islands, and Robert Moses Power Dam.SMALLMOUTH BASSSmallies can be caught from June through November,but bronzebacks are the river’s‘”summer fish.” In earlysummer, look for smallmouths along mainland points,island shorelines, rocky areas, and large flats. As summer progresses these fish congregate near deep-water large bays. Traditional offerings such as the plastic worm, jig points, island drop offs, and mid-river shoals. Casting artificial and pig, and surface baits work well. The early morning hours lures such as spinners, minnow-imitation plugs, surface baits, offer the best action during the summer, but autumn is the and tipped jigs works well in early season. When fish leave most productive time of the year for largemouths. spawning areas and move to deeper water, live bait (minnows or crayfish) and tipped jigs work well. Some anglers drift PANFISH through areas while others anchor on key spots. The St. Lawrence has a variety of panfish including yellow perch, rock bass, bullheads, pumpkinseeds, and black Either way, the secret is to move from spot to spot until crappies. Both shore anglers and boaters pursue panfish. active fish are located. Trolling diving plugs is an effective Yellow perch outdistance the other species in popularity, technique throughout summer and fall. Smallmouth abound and anglers catch them year round in all of the river’s larger throughout the river system, and among the more popular bays. The most popular perch bays are Chippewa, Terrace locations are the islands at Chippewa Bay, American Park, Morley’s, Wheathouse, Coles Creek, Wilson Hill, and and Old Man Islands at Morristown, Galop Island at Massena Town Beach. Ogdensburg, Ogden Island at Waddington, and Wilson Hill, Croil, and Long Sault Islands at Massena. Bullhead fishing marks the end of winter and beginning of spring on the angler’s calendar. This species receives LARGEMOUTH BASS significant angler attention in April and May, and Because of cool water temperatures and significant current nightcrawlers are the bait of choice. The Waddington to flows, the river’s habitat is better suited for smallmouth bass Massena stretch of river offers first­rate bullhead fishing. than it is for largemouth bass. Largemouths are generally Prime spots include Whitehouse Bay, Coles Creek, and Wilson an overlooked species but they are present in the system. Hill. Bucketmouths can be found in the backwaters of most 11

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Muskellunge Evening, especially after dark, produces the best results. • the mouth of Whitehouse Bay, Ogden Island, and the Muskies can be caught throughout the summer even mouth of Coles Creek at WaddingtonThe St. Lawrence River is rich in muskie history. That history though autumn is recognized as prime muskie season.includes the “fishing couples,” Art and Ruth Lawton and Len • the Town Beach, Copeland Oil Tanks, and Hawkins Pointand Betty Hartman, as well as legendary guides Jim Evans Dedicated muskie anglers might have their own secrets that at Massenaand AI Russell. contribute to their success but the bottom line is, anyone who puts in his trolling time in recognized muskie hotspots THE CASE FOR CATCH-AND-RELEASEDuring the 1950s and 1960s the Lawtons and Hartmans will catch one of these leviathans. A growing catch-and-release ethic on the part of anglers iswon national contests with the monster muskies they cause for optimism among the muskie-fishing community.pulled from the river. Art Lawton’s 64.5-inch, 69-pound, ST. LAWRENCE RIVER HOTSPOTS An increased awareness on the part of anglers, the optionI5-ounce fish taken in 1957 is recognized by the state DEC as Muskies can be taken anywhere in the river but, year after of having a taxidermist produce a “reproduction” mount,the current world record. year, traditional hotspots yield the majority of the fish. and the concept and ease of snapping a photograph as a The very best spots are characterized by large flats with memento are all contributing to the popularity of releasingDuring their guiding careers, Jim Evans and AI Russell significant structural edges and adjacent deep water. A mild trophy muskellunge. Also making a difference has beenproduced hundreds of muskies for their clients. Evans current is also present. the cooperative program spearheaded by St. Lawrencecaught the majority of his muskies in the Morristown area River advocacy organization Save the River: anyone whowhile Russell took his fish in the Ogdensburg stretch of river. Ten favorite muskie haunts are: documents their release of a legal muskie is awarded a print • the channel side of Oak Island at Chippewa Bay of a muskie painting by renowned St. Lawrence River artistTHE ALLURE • American Island at Morristown Michael Ringer. Contact Save the River for details:In the angling world, the muskie has been called the “fish • the mouth of the Oswegatchie River and the www.savetheriver.org, 315-686-2010,of a hundred hours” and the “fish of a thousand casts.”When [email protected] go after muskies, the outing is called a hunt rather International Bridge Shoals at Ogdensburgthan a fishing trip. The muskie is at the top of the food chainin its world, and catching a trophy muskie is the ultimatechallenge in freshwater fishing. There are no shortcuts.Why would an angler spend hour after hour, even dayafter day, to catch a single fish? Some say it’s the hunt itself.Some claim it’s the challenge. Others say it’s the incrediblepower of the strike, or the excitement of the fight. Manysay it’s seeing the fish’s awesome size. Nearly all cite theunbelievable feeling of watching a successfully releasedmuskie swim away. Like many things in life, the magicof catching and releasing a muskellunge has to beexperienced before it can be fully appreciated.TECHNIQUESNearly all muskie anglers employ the same technique,trolling large minnow-plugs. Trollers work their lures in the20- to 40-foot water depths along structural edges and theadjacent deep water. Popular plugs include Swim Whiz,Cisco Kid, Radtke Pike Minnow, Suick, and Depth Raider.Baits should be worked close to bottom and natural colorssuch as shiner, perch, and bullhead are recommended. 13

LETTING GO… When releasing a muskie, the best practice is to unhook the fish while it’s still in the water. Some anglers control the muskie by hand while others opt to use a net or cradle. Have a camera at the ready, to minimize the amount of time the fish is out of the water. When lifting the fish, be sure to support its innards by holding one hand under its belly. Immediately return the fish to the water, supporting it until the muskie swims off on its own. Oversized, needle nose pliers and large bolt cutters are indispensable for effective, non-damaging releases. REGULATIONS AND SEASON DATES The muskellunge season for the St. Lawrence River runs from the third Saturday in June through December 15, and a legal fish must measure a minimum of 48 inches. The minimum length for muskies in St. Lawrence County’s other rivers is 40 inches, and the season runs from the third Saturday in June through November 30. MUSKIES IN SMALL RIVERS Muskellunge inhabit the lower stretches of five rivers that eventually flow into the St. Lawrence: the Oswegatchie, Grasse, Raquette, St. Regis, and Deer rivers. Populations here could easily be overfished, so catch and release is especially encouraged for all muskellunge taken on our smaller rivers. Muskie fishing in these St. Lawrence County rivers is primarily done from canoes or small boats. Bridge crossings, road crossings, and various launches provide access along the river. Unlike the St. Lawrence River where trolling is the primary technique, the small rivers offer the opportunity to cast for muskies. For the most part, anglers use an electric motor or simply let the current move them along while they cast to the bank. Because of shallow water, many anglers opt to toss surface lures, but spinners and jerk baits will also entice strikes. FLY-FISHING FOR GIANTS Some of the best and most diverse fly-fishing opportunities for muskies exist in St. Lawrence County, thanks to the variety of shallow water tributaries to the St. Lawrence River. These wade-able and floatable flows include the middle14

and lower warm water stretches of the Grasse, Raquette, St. You Are Not Alone…Regis, Deer and Little rivers, which can be easily fly-fishedfrom a wide variety of access points. You’ll find water types Osprey, bald eagles, herons, kingfishers,ranging from trout-stream-like riffles and slow runs to flat- river otters – these and other wild speciesrock shelves and deeper flats. are out there competing for fish, too, in St. Lawrence County waters. Human anglersTop-water action is excellent when using divers, poppersand sliders. The vicious surface take of the muskie is only who are lucky enough to see some ofcomparable to the tail-walking battle and multiple long these fellow fishermen are asked to giveruns that inevitably follow. If you’re looking for great muskie them respect and distance, especiallyfly-fishing, it’s right here. during bird nesting season. 15

St. LawrenceRiver CarpCarp are powerful fish whose fighting ability pushes anyangler’s skill and tackle to the limit. With deep-surging runsand arm-wrenching power, carp provide a fight that has to beexperienced to be believed. And since carp fishing is generallydone from the shore, or bank side, the excitement is availableto all. Sport fishing for carp has seen a surge in popularity alongthe St. Lawrence River as well as across the country, as NorthAmerican anglers catch up to their counterparts around theworld in praising the carp as the“queen of the river.”A testament to the outstanding carp fishing along the St.Lawrence County riverfront is the fact that this area has been the site of two world carp fishing championships, and every to the fish. Use a breathable sack when weighing a fish and year hosts an international junior carp fishing tournament. before returning it to the water. Also, be sure to pick up all litter so that the area, called a“swim,”is clean for the next The average weight for a St. Lawrence River carp approaches anglers. 20 pounds, and fish up to 40 pounds are common. The New York State record stands at 50 pounds, six ounces and record- TACKLE AND BAIT breaking fish are believed to be in the St. Lawrence. The basic tackle consists of 12- to 13- foot rods with large spinning reels capable of casting 20-30 yards from shore. SEASONS Regulations allow an angler to use two rods, with a single New York State law permits the fishing of carp all year long, hook on each one. but anglers generally restrict their efforts to May through ice-up. June, July, and August are the most popular months Serious carp anglers carry an unhooking mat and an array of because they yield the biggest and the most fish. Catches terminal tackle for tying rigs. Fishing line is generally in the of 20 to 30 fish per person per day are common. Carp can 15- to 20-pound range. Various types of bait will catch carp, be caught throughout the day, but the best action occurs but the most popular are corn – pre-soaked for 24 hours and around dawn and dusk. sometimes boiled to soften – and“boilies,” a kind of dough ball that is treated with sweet flavors such as strawberry or ANGLING ETHICS pineapple. Before fishing an area, a quantity of corn is thrown Ethics call for anglers to catch and release carp. When into the water to lure in fish. possible, use a mat when landing a carp to prevent injury 16

THOUSANDS OF SWIMSThere are literally thousands of swims to fish along the banksand islands of the St. Lawrence River. State parks, public docks,public beaches, and boat launches are very popular, andsince the New York State Power Authority owns the majorityof river frontage between Massena and Red Mills, there is noshortage of fishing spots. Carp inhabit the entire length ofthe river so any spot an angler can legally and safely fish is apotential hotspot. Anglers are encouraged to select swimsthat allow for the safe landing of the fish, also.For more information on carp fishing, fishing supplies, andtournaments, visit www.fishcap.net or call the St. LawrenceCounty Chamber of Commerce, 315-386-4000/877-228-7810.ST. LAWRENCE RIVER CAMPING, ACCESS,AND SHOREFISHINGCamping opportunities exist along the river at Cedar IslandState Park in Chippewa Bay, at Jacques Cartier State Parknear Morristown, the Town of Lisbon Recreation Area eastof Ogdensburg, Coles Creek State Park at Waddington, andRobert Moses State Park at Massena. The campgrounds haveramps for boat access as well as docks and river frontage forshore angling. Boat ramps and shorefishing opportunities arealso available in all communities along the river. 17

Fly-Fishing The northeastern corner of the county, where the which to choose. Backwoods wilderness ponds and lakes northern slope of the Adirondack Mountains meets abound as well as bodies of water with easier access, boatSome of the best and most varied freshwater fly-fishing the St. Lawrence River Valley, is a paradise for the fly- launches and nearby services.in the world can be enjoyed within St. Lawrence County’s fisher who prefers flowing water for coldwater species.borders. Coldwater quarry such as rainbow, brown and Rivers and streams that see very little fishing pressure BRING THE WOOLY BUGGERSbrook trout abound in flowing waters; landlocked Atlantic ensure a rewarding fly-fishing experience. The most popular fly rod sizes for larger trout flows are foursalmon, kokanee salmon, lake trout and splake are found and five weights in lengths of eight to nine feet. Floating,in ponds and lakes; and warm water panfish and predators Mayfly and caddis fly hatches are abundant throughout weight-forward fly lines are used most often for dry flyincluding bass, pike and muskies (see page 14) prowl the season and the non-pressured fish are eager to fishing and for subsurface nymphs and streamers. Large,rivers, lakes and ponds. consume the piscator’s well-presented offerings. Stillwater dark stonefly nymphs as well as wooly buggers and muddler trout fly-fishers have a seemingly never-ending supply of minnows work well throughout the season while hatch­ coldwater ponds and lakes throughout the county from matching, buoyant dry flies work best in the faster currents of riffles, runs and pocket water. For slower flats and pools, hatch-matching emergers and no-hackle dry flies are very productive. For the smaller brooks and creeks, shorter rods of six to seven and a half feet in length are preferred. Rod weight designations from two to four are best suited for these areas and floating weight- forward or double-taper fly lines work best. ON LAKES AND PONDS On trout lakes and ponds in the area, rods of five or six weight in lengths of nine to 10 feet work well. For trolling deeper areas, full sinking, weight-forward fly lines are most productive especially those lines with a fast sink rate. For casting streamers or nymphs in six to 15 feet of water, a sink- tip, weight-forward fly line is preferred. In clear water ponds and lakes, use leaders 10 feet in length or longer. Floating, weight-forward fly lines with long, thin tapered leaders should be used for fishing dry flies in still waters. Popular streamers for lake and pond fishing include black or olive wooly buggers, gray ghosts, Mickey Finns, leach patterns and marabou muddlers. 18

fly-fishing hatch chart Hatch Dates Genus/Species Common Names Peak Activity Area Rivers Best Imitations Size 19

Raquette River As the uppermost impoundment in the system, Carry places to fish and admire the scenery. It’s common to seeReservoirs Falls Reservoir is used to capture the heavy spring runoff loons and bald eagles at Blake. and this water regulates flows to five downstream hydroThe construction of hydroelectric dams on the Raquette projects. As a result, Carry sees a significant fluctuation While walleyes are the most targeted species here,River created a series of eight reservoirs called the Upper in seasonal water levels with fall levels typically 20 feet smallmouths, yellow perch, and northern pike also receiveImpoundments. Carry Falls, Stark Falls, Black Falls, lower than spring levels. Boats will find access from public significant attention. Look for small mouths on points,Rainbow Falls, Five Falls, South Colton, Higley Flow, launches at either end of the reservoir, and a campground along gravel shorelines, in boulder-strewn areas, alongand Colton Flow reservoirs comprise this 30-mile stretch exists near the southern launch. shoreline dropoffs, in necked-down areas, and whereverof “river.” there is a current flow. STARK FALLS RESERVOIRThe reservoirs stretch from 100 to 3,000 acres and shorelines Covering nearly 600 acres, this reservoir is the most Yellow perch exist throughout, but look for larger perchvary from developments to wilderness. Walleyes are the popular walleye destination of the Upper Impoundments. along weeds in the open area at Blake’s southern end ormost sought after species in the impoundments, but Stark has minimal development along its northeast shore, the points and bays east of the campground. Good bets forsmallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch are and for the most part a shoreline of cedar, poplar, pine finding northern pike are the weed edges and shorelinesalso popular. Other possibilities include tiger muskies, and hardwoods greets anglers. The most popular and of the bays in the northern half of the reservoir.largemouth bass, pumpkinseeds, brown bullheads, productive area for walleyes is just below the dam at therock bass, and fallfish. Public access and shore fishing reservoir’s south end. Quality public access is available at two launchare available at each reservoir. Established campgrounds sites. and primitive camping are also available along the Upper Deep holes, strong currents, humps, boulders, andImpoundments. shoreline dropoffs attract walleyes to this area. Casting a bucktail jig or plain jig with a twister tail is the favoredCARRY FALLS RESERVOIR technique. Tipping the jig with a piece of crawler willCarry Falls, a 3,000 acre reservoir in the Adirondack Park, improve the catch rate. Though less popular, trollingoffers angling in a wilderness setting. Most anglers target minnow plugs or spinner and worm rigs works well here.walleyes here and prime spots from spring through fallinclude the Raquette River, the shoreline and shoals where No matter what technique a walleye angler uses, he orthe river widens into the reservoir, the mouth of the Jordan she is likely to catch a variety of species including perch,River, Maple Island, and the drop-offs along the reservoir’s smallmouths, rock bass and fallfish. When targetingwestern shoreline. smallmouths, anglers should concentrate efforts along dropoffs.Effective techniques include trolling minnow plugs orspinner-and-worm rigs and casting crankbaits or crawler- Stark reservoir has been stocked with tiger muskies sincetipped jigs. 1997, and as at Carry Falls the majority of muskie and pike catches occur incidentally by anglers pursuing walleyes.Don’t overlook smallmouths. Bronzebacks are found alongthe 29 miles of shoreline, around islands, and on flats Boaters will find developed public access at the north endespecially where boulders and current or wave action are and undeveloped access at the south end of the reservoir,present. which experiences minimal fluctuation in water levels.The state DEC has been stocking tiger muskies annually in BLAKE FALLS RESERVOIRCarry since 1997 and this species along with northern pike This reservoir has the look of a large lake – it covers moreare the reservoir’s “big fish.” Few anglers target tigers or pike, than 700 acres and extends nearly four miles.for the most part they are the incidental catches of walleyeanglers. There is minimal shoreline development, but Blake McNeil Campground makes the reservoir a popular destination for family camping, swimming, picnicking, boating, and water skiing. Despite this activity, anglers can always find quiet 20

RAINBOW FALLS RESERVOIR The shoreline here is undeveloped so anglers can pursue aMarshy areas and shallow bays in the southern half ofRainbow Falls, like Blake, covers more than 700 acres northern pike, walleyes, and smallmouths in a very scenic Higley Flow make prime pike habitat, and the excellentand extends for four miles. This reservoir has significant setting. structure in the reservoir’s northern half holds walleyes,development along the south shore, but the north shore, smallmouth, and pike especially along points and dropoffs.which offers better fishing, is almost entirely wooded. Look for pike in the shallow areas, along shoreline weedDespite good populations of walleyes, smallmouths, beds, and shoreline dropoffs. The northern half of Five Falls In addition to catching perch, pumpkinseeds, andnorthern pike, and yellow perch, Rainbow Falls sees contains water in the 10- to 40-foot range, and this is the bullheads throughout Higley, panfish anglers also have therelatively light angling pressure. place to seek out walleyes and bronzebacks, especially opportunity to catch black crappies. along the shoreline and island dropoffs. A developedWork the point just northwest of Campbell Island, the launch site provides public access. Developed public access is available at the State Park anddeep water around the rock piles where the unnamed at the flow’s northern end near the dam.creek enters, and the upper end where the reservoir South Colton covers 230 acres over its 2.2- mile length, andnarrows and makes a 90-degree turn. When looking for the reservoir holds populations of walleyes, northern pike, Colton Flow, covering 154 acres and extending for 2.4smallmouth bass, check out the points, rocky shorelines, smallmouth bass, and panfish. Yet, South Colton receives miles, has deep pools at each end, but the majority ofboulders in mid-reservoir, and the narrow, upper reaches. minimal public use because the reservoir’s shoreline the reservoir has a slow-moving, river-like character withRainbow has fairly extensive weed growth, a feature that is privately owned and significantly developed. A boat depths ranging to 10 feet. These shallows make Coltonattracts northern pike and yellow perch. Look for perch in launch at the western end provides access as does a carry- Flow a favorite of panfish anglers and youths who catch athe deeper water adjacent to weed beds and shallow flats. down site on the north shore. mixed bag of perch, pumpkinseeds, rock bass, bullheads,Public access to Rainbow is gained at a concrete ramp in and fallfish. The two pools and shoreline cover are thethe reservoir’s western end. HIGLEY AND COLTON FLOWS places to take pike, bass, and walleyes. Higley Flow, covering 1,135 acres and extending for 4.4FIVE FALLS AND SOUTH COLTON miles, boasts of Higley Flow State Park. Campers at the park This reservoir has moderate development, and accessRESERVOIRS plus the heavy development around the reservoir translate exists at a developed launch on the northwest shore and aFive Falls covers 122 acres and extends less than two to significant activity here during the summer. carry-down site on the northeast shore.miles, making it the smallest of the Upper impoundments. 21

Black Lake With its campgrounds, cottages, boat rentals, marinas, stores, bait shops, guides, and diners, Black Lake is anBlack Lake, the largest of the Indian River lakes, covers angler-friendly community offering a lifetime of fishingmore than 8,000 acres and extends for nearly 20 miles opportunities. Available species include largemouth bass,along County Route 6. A mixture of marsh, woodland, smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, black crappies,farmland, and cottage development characterize the yellow perch, bluegills, pumpkinseeds, bullheads, catfish,60 miles of shoreline. In addition to shoreline structure, rock bass, muskellunge, and longnose gar. You’re likely tofish-holding habitat includes weedy bays, weedlines, catch a combination of species on any given outing.shoals, islands, dropoffs, rock piles, channels, tributaries,and necked-down areas. The lake’s maximum depth National publications have rated Black Lake amongapproaches 30 feet, and the average depth is eight feet. the top-ten bass waters in the country. To protectChannels and shoals are well marked, but boaters should the outstanding quality of bass fishing on Black Lake,use a lake chart or depth finder when travelling unfamiliar special regulations call for a minimum length of 15 inchesareas. Because of Black Lake’s shallow depths, high winds and a daily limit of three fish for both largemouth andtypically create a significant chop on the open water. But smallmouth bass. A growing catch­and-release ethicanglers can always find out-of-the-wind places to fish. among anglers also contributes to the quality of bass fishing. Black Lake hosts numerous fishing events throughout the year; check with the Black Lake Chamber of Commerce – www.blacklakeny.com – for specifics. LARGEMOUTH BASS Black Lake anglers target largemouth bass more than any other game fish. These fish inhabit the lake’s entire length and are catchable throughout the legal season. The best fishing occurs in early summer and throughout the fall. Look for largemouths along weedlines, in openings in the weeds, around weedy shoals, and on rocky points. Traditional offerings such as the plastic worm, jig and pig, and spinnerbait work well as do tube jigs, crankbaits, and surface lures. 22

SMALLMOUTH BASS BLACK CRAPPIESIn June and early July, an angler’s best bet is to work the The black crappie ranks as the lake’s most popularrocky points where crankbaits produce the top catches. panfish. After ice-out, crappies migrate into marshy baysMid-lake structures are tile best locations for mid-summer where the fish remain through April and early May. Theseangling. Summer bronzebacks inhabit deep water adjacent shallow-water crappies offer some of the best fishing ofto the shoals and move to the shallows to feed under the year as large schools hold tight to cover. During thelow-light conditions. At this time of the year, live crayfish spawning period of late May and early June, crappiesyield the best catches. Smallmouth action peaks in autumn congregate on rocky points and the fishing remains first-when the fish congregate on rocky shoals. Minnows rate. Summer angling is more challenging as fish move toreplace crayfish as best live bait and crankbaits work well deeper water and disperse throughout the lake. Successfultoo. outings require more searching on the part of anglers, but two prime locations to check out are shoals and weedNORTHERN PIKE edges. The lake sees minimal crappie pressure In autumn, aThe northern pike is Black Lake’s “fish for all seasons.” Many time when the most productive spots are mid-lake shoalssmall pike fill the waters here, but four- to seven- and rock piles.pound pike are very common, and double figureweights are possible any time of the year. Spring offers YELLOW PERCHsome of the best pike action when fish can be taken in Yellow perch populations are abundant in the lake andany weedy bays. For the best summer action, look for ice-out offers some of the year’s best action, especially forpike along weedlines in a sandy or gravelly area rather shore anglers. Popular locations include the State Route 58than a mucky one. Pike action is good throughout the causeways and bridges that connect Booth Island to thefall with early autumn yielding the best catches. Look for mainland. Later in the spring and throughout the summer,green weeds and cast artificials along weedy shoals and perch can be found throughout the lake. With a minimalweedllnes. In winter, ice anglers concentrate efforts in Mile amount of drifting, anglers should be able to locate aArm Bay, the area from Rollaway Bay to Conger Island, and school of fish. Since perch tend to run on the small side,the massive weed flat extending from Fisherman’s Landing fishers face the challenge of finding fish that merit filleting.to Camp Carol Camps. Some anglers catch keeper-perch throughout the summer by working deeper holes in the main lake. Fall catchesWALLEYE occur In deep water off rocky points. Minnows and worms,The walleye is Black Lake’s comeback kid. Stocking efforts fished close to bottom, are the best producers throughoutand habitat improvement projects by the state DEC and the open-water season.the Black Lake Fish and Game Association have broughtabout a tremendous resurgence in walleye numbers. BLUEGILLS The scrappy bluegill is the fighter among the lake’s panfish,Incidental catches occur throughout the lake and an and spring sees ‘gills move to shallow water where theyincreasing number of anglers are targeting and regularly remain until mid-June. Spring bluegills are a favorite of flycatching marble eyes. Some use bucktail jigs tipped with fishers. Marshy areas and rocky shorelines with a graduala crawler, but the majority of walleye anglers troll crawler dropoff are prime locations. In the summer, bluegillsharnesses or diving minnow plugs. school near weedlines, rock plies, and other structures. Autumn can produce some big bluegills especially nearThe best locations have mild current present so check shorelines and islands that have a combination of rocks,out the Indian River inlet, the Narrows, the State Route 58 weeds, and open water.causeway, and the Oswegatchie outlet. 23

Small Rivers Opportunities exist for all types of anglers. The rivers are Look for panfish along any shoreline especially where especially attractive to shore fishers, waders, canoeists, and weeds or other types of cover are present. Live bait suchIn addition to the St. Lawrence River, St. Lawrence County small boaters. Float trips are extremely popular, and trips as worms or small minnows will entice a variety of panfishalso boasts the Oswegatchie, Grasse, Raquette, St. Regis, vary in length from several hours to several days. The DEC as will small jigs tipped with plastic or grubs. Panfish offerIndian, and Deer Rivers. In most places across the country, provides information on the various rivers to help anglers excellent shorefishing opportunities for anglers of all ages,they would be considered big rivers – but here, dwarfed by plan trips. Access points along the rivers include boat but the excitement of a moving or disappearing bobber isthe mighty St. Lawrence into which they eventually flow, launches, community water frontage, bridges, roadside especially fun for youngsters. If fishing is slow in an area, bethey are called the county’s “small rivers.”Whatever they are pulloffs, and road crossings. sure to move to another location.called, these great waterways offer hundreds of miles ofangling opportunities. Special regulations for the county’s small rivers set OSWEGATCHIE RIVER a minimum length of I0 inches for bass. Look for The Oswegatchie River originates from five small flows inFor the most part, these rivers originate in the Adirondack bronzebacks in boulder-strewn stretches, rapids, pools the Adirondack’s Five Ponds Wilderness Area, and windsPark and their upper reaches hold a variety of trout species. below falls, and downed trees. Many smallmouth areas are through St. Lawrence County for 132 miles before enteringIn contrast, the lower stretches offer first-rate angling for best fished by wading. the St. Lawrence River at Ogdensburg. Oswegatchie isa variety of warmwater species, and the most popular a native term meaning “going around a hill,” and thatare smallmouth bass, walleyes, and panfish including Walleyes favor shoreline dropoffs, pools just above and description aptly fits this meandering river.perch, rock bass, crappies, pumpkinseeds, bullheads, below rapids, and rocky areas where current is present.and fallfish. Other possibilities include northern pike, Casting crawler-tipped jigs or trolling shallow-diving The 35-mile stretch of river from Newton Falls tomuskellunge, largemouth bass, and catfish. minnow plugs such as the Shad Rap works well on Hailesboro has a 970-foot drop in elevation. This is a wild walleyes. Evening hours produce the best catches with and attractive section of river that is interrupted by dams May and September being the prime months. and rapid-choked areas. For the most part, anglers seeking warmwater species concentrate efforts in the 67-mile portion of river from Hailesboro to Ogdensburg. This wide, slow-moving stretch has a gentle character with a vertical drop of only 200 feet, and the fishing is good for walleyes, smallmouths, northern pike, and panfish. The free DEC brochure, “Fishing/Canoeing the Oswegatchie River” will help anglers in planning trips. 24

GRASSE RIVER ST. REGIS, INDIAN, AND DEER RIVERS excellent fishing. Available species include panfish,The upper reaches of the Grasse River hold brown trout The St. Regis, Indian, and Deer rivers originate in smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, northernand brook trout, but warmwater anglers concentrate neighboring counties, but a portion of each water flows pike, and catfish. The waters above Rossie promise qualitytheir efforts on the 44-mile stretch of river from Pyrites through St. Lawrence County. panfishing while the area below the falls in Rossie is ato Massena. Boat launches below Canton and in Madrid hotspot for early-season crappies and walleyes. A free DECmake those stretches attractive for small boats. These The section of St. Regis River from the county line to Fort brochure, “Fishing and Canoeing the Indian River,” containslaunches as well as access at various road crossings and Jackson is trout water, but the 25-mile stretch from Fort detailed information about this flow.roadside pulloffs make this river a popular one for day-long Jackson to the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation land offersfloat trips via canoe. quality action for walleyes and bronzebacks. Northern The Deer River originates in Franklin County, but the river pike and muskies are possibilities, as are panfish. A free then flows through northeastern St. Lawrence CountyThe Grasse holds good numbers of smallmouth bass DEC pamphlet, “Fishing and Canoeing the St. Regis River in before emptying into the St. Regis River at Helena. A canoeand walleyes. In addition, the river has a stable muskie St. Lawrence County,” provides detailed information about is the best way to fish the Deer River, which has goodpopulation. Regulations call for a 40-inch minimum length access points. populations of smallmouths and walleyes. Muskiesfor muskies taken on St. Lawrence County rivers but are also present, and catch and release of all muskiesanglers are encouraged to release all muskellunge caught The Indian River flows for nearly I00 miles through Lewis is encouraged. The Deer flows past the communitieson the Grasse and other rivers. The free DEC brochure, and Jefferson counties before entering St. Lawrence of Lawrenceville, North Lawrence, Brasher Iron Works,“Fishing and Canoeing the Grasse River,” is a valuable aid for County, where it empties into Black Lake. The 10-mile and Helena. Access is available from state land and roadplanning trips. stretch from the county line to Black Lake offers some crossings.RAQUETTE RIVERThe Upper Raquette River has good bass fishing andfair angling for pike and walleye, but this 17-mile stretchreceives minimal pressure because access is limited andstrong rapids are common. The Upper Impoundmentscomprise the next 27 miles of river, and fishing informationfor these eight reservoirs can be found on (pages 20 and21) of this guide.The middle and lower portions of the Raquette River flowfor nearly 50 miles from Colton to the Akwesasne MohawkNation. Long river stretches, numerous dams, and severalreservoirs characterize the middle stretch of river whilethe lower stretch offers 15 miles of gentle, uninterruptedflow. The final 5.6 miles flow through the Mohawkterritory before emptying into the St. Lawrence River,and permission must be gained from the Mohawk TribalCouncil before fishing their waters; call (518)358-2272.The Raquette is a smallmouth bass river, but walleyes,northern pike, and panfish are also available throughoutthe system. Muskies are present in the lower river. A freeDEC brochure, “The Raquette River,” provides detailedinformation on this river system. 25

Trout Flows water, it is most effectively fished while wading. However, The trout mortality rate increases exponentially in water the combination of the tannins­ tained water, the algae- temperatures above 70 degrees.The largest trout flows in St. Lawrence County include covered, rounded rocks and boulders and the quicklythe St. Regis River, the West Branch of the St. Regis River, varying water depth make wading difficult. While wading Small numbers of native brook trout can only occasionallythe upper Oswegatchie River and the upper Grasse River. the pocket water sections, felt-soled boots or studded be found in the St. Lawrence County section of the St.These rivers boast a variety of water types from gentle soles are an absolute necessity and the use of a Regis River. To target these brookies, concentrate yourruns, flats and shallow riffles to plunge pools and heavy wading staff is advised. Very little of this section of river efforts early or late in the season or seek out spring feederpocket water. Although some sections of these waters are can be effectively fished from shore with two exceptions creeks and spring holes. Browns and rainbows in a widegenerously stocked with various trout species, native brook being the bridge pools at Mill Road and Fort Jackson variety of sizes are found throughout the river. Whiletrout can be found in more secluded areas while wild bridges. the browns tend to concentrate in the slower currentbrowns and rainbows test anglers’ abilities throughout the runs, pools and flats, the rainbows will tend to seek outcoldwater sections of these rivers. Although the Franklin County section of the river in the the faster moving currents especially after the water hamlet of St. Regis Falls sees heavy fishing pressure during temperature rises. Brook trout are rarely caught larger thanIn addition to the larger flows, there are numerous smaller the spring months, most St. Lawrence County sections see 10 inches, but rainbows commonly exceed 12 inches andcreeks and streams that afford the trout angler a variety very little fishing pressure throughout most of the season, brown trout are caught in the16- to 20-inch range.of trout fishing experiences. Some of the more notable especially during the fall months. The regular trout seasoncounty trout streams include Cold Brook, Plumb begins on April I and ends October 15, but the section Depending on the time of season, a variety of dry flies andBrook, Little River, Trout Brook and the Jordan River. of river between Mill Road Bridge and the hamlet of Fort nymphs can be very productive. See the hatch chart onThese smaller streams generally have areas where native Jackson is open for year-round fishing. There are four page 19 for detailed hatch information. Streamers such asbrook trout, as well as wild and stocked brown trout, can public access sites in the St. Lawrence County section of the wooly bugger, in black or olive color work especiallybe pursued. the trout water; the uppermost being the Mill Road Bridge well all year long as well as streamers such as the muddler off the Day’s Mills Road. minnow. Stonefly nymphs are always a good bet. SpinST. REGIS RIVER fishers can do well with small spinners and very smallThe St. Regis River from the Franklin County line at Lake During the spring season when the water temperature spoons retrieved crosscurrent in the runs and riffles as wellOzonia outlet, downriver to the hamlet of Fort Jackson, is cold and the trout are lethargic, the best time of day as bait dead-drifted in the current near the bottom of theconsists primarily of pocket water where faster flows are to fish is mid-afternoon: the water warms, trout forage water column. The west branch of the St. Regis Riverpushed around larger rocks and boulders to form the eddies begins to hatch or becomes more active, and the trout has a wide variety of water types with something forand current seams where trout love to hold and feed. feed more aggressively. The same holds true for the late every trout angler. For the boater, canoeist or float-tuber, season except that the fly hatches can occur a bit later in the Allen’s Falls Reservoir holds large rainbow trout as wellNotable exceptions to this water type can be found near the day than they do during the spring. During the heat ofthe Mill Road Bridge off from the Day’s Mills Road where the summer, it is most productive to fish trout from dawna large bridge pool is preceded by some small, upriver to nine or 10 a.m. and again from early evening until dusk.islands whose braiding effect causes some classic “riffle- During especially hot, dry summers, the water temperaturerun-pool” stretches. Areas upriver of the Route 11B bridge in in the St. Regis River can rise to the point where trout willNicholville and the flows in the Fort Jackson area are home stop feeding entirely; they can even die if the temperatureto small stretches of more diverse water types as well. remains high for a long period. If the water temperature reaches 70 degrees Fahrenheit, most brown and brookSpecial regulations on the St. Lawrence County section of trout will stop feeding and rainbow trout will begin to fastthe St. Regis limit harvest of trout over 12 inches to three at approximately 73 degrees. Therefore, it makes sensetrout per day per angler. to refrain from fishing trout in such temperatures. As it is best to practice catch-and-release or at the very least,The river width averages between 50 and I00 feet and is selective harvest fishing in trout streams and rivers,a wade-able depth from June through October 15th. As it is especially important to refrain from fishing thesethe trout habitat of the St. Regis is mostly heavy pocket waters during periods of high water temperatures. 26

as the occasional native brook trout. Access to this river 11B bridge can be gained at the state forest on the West Ponds Outlet. Other South Branch of the Grasse River troutimpoundment can be gained from the bridge on the Old Stockholm Southville Road. water can be found at the Connerville Road, the bridgePotsdam-Parishville Road near the hamlet of Parishville and in Russell, the Lampson’s Falls trail and the canoe launch;there is a boat launch and parking area at the Allen’s Falls Fishing pressure on the West Branch of the St Regis River both off County Route 27,and the DeGrasse State Forest.Reservoir Dam. is very light. The fly hatches are nearly identical to those on the main stem of the St. Regis River (see hatch chart on In addition to the special year-round trout fishingSome rainbow trout can be caught in the Parishville page 19) and the same artificial fly patterns will work well. regulation on the St. Regis River, the trout-fishing seasonReservoir in the hamlet of Parishville and brook trout can Water temperatures are cooler in the West Branch than is also extended from April 1st to November 30th on thebe taken near the inlet of the reservoir and upriver. Much they are in the main stem, which allows for better survival Little River in the towns of Clinton and Fine as well as theof the river up-current of this reservoir is inaccessible as it and reproduction of wild, native and “carryover” stocked Oswegatchie River from Cranberry Lake Outlet downriver.is surrounded by private property. Access to the inlet area trout. The West Branch lends itself best to fly-fishing butcan be gained primarily by canoe or float tube. spin fishers can also have success by wading and using Other general regulation trout flows include Plumb small spinners fished crosscurrent in deeper stretches. In Brook, which can be accessed at Silver Hill State ForestBelow the Allen’s Falls Reservoir dam, in the catch-and- the catch-and-release section, spin fishers must use single- and Whippoorwill Corner State Forest, off County Routerelease area that continues downriver to the Route 11B point hooks and the use of any type of bait, alive or dead, 17 between DeGrasse and Russell; Trout Brook, whichbridge, the river flows into a shaded ravine that becomes is strictly prohibited. can be accessed from Route 11B between Potsdam andbraided in a few spots and takes on the character of a Hopkinton, and downriver at the Sullivan Road Bridge; andclassic Adirondack brook trout stream. A couple of small Other catch-and release trout flows in St. Lawrence County Hopkinton Brook which can be accessed off from Routespring creeks as well as a few subsurface springs keep this include Cold Brook which flows parallel to County Route 11B in Hopkinton as well as upstream on the Lake Ozoniastretch colder and more habitable for the native brook 56 near South Colton, the South Branch of the Grasse River Road. All of these general regulations streams hold browntrout. As you continue downriver, the water type varies from one-half mile downstream of the Route 3 Bridge, trout and an occasional brook trout can be found in thefrom classic ‘’riffle-run-pool” stretches, to pocket water, upstream to the Grasse River Flow and the Lake George occasional spring hole.flats and even a few narrow, deeper rock channels. As Road, and again in the Town of Claire upstream to Twinthe river reaches its downstream end of the catch-and-release section, it widens and changes to the character of afreestone river.The catch-and-release sections of the West Branch of theSt. Regis are now open to angling year-round.The section of the West Branch below the hydroelectricpower plants at Parishville and Allen’s Falls, whichhad previously been dewatered by the hydro-plantson a continual basis, are now regulated by minimumflow requirements. The flow regimen, along with thereintroduction of trout throughout this section, hasreturned this stretch of river to a productive trout fishery.Angler access to the catch-and-release section can begained beside the Route 11B bridge five minutes east ofPotsdam on the River Hill Road, below the Allen’s Falls damnear Parishville, below the Allen’s Falls hydroelectric facilityplant off the Allen’s Falls Road, and at the bridge on Allen’sFalls Road. Access to the general regulations (non-catch-and-release) trout sections downriver (North) of the Route 27

Cranberry Lake fishery DEC began a stocking program in 1981. Today, the lake’s brookies average 12 to 16 inches, and fish in theLocated in western St. Lawrence County, the Cranberry 4- to 5-pound range are taken annually. Prime locations inLake area was one of the last regions of New York State to spring and fall include the mouths of tributaries. Duringbe settled. It remains a place where loons call, virgin timber the summer, brook trout hold near spring holes wherestands, and pure wilderness awaits visitors. water is cooler. Popular techniques include casting a Mepps spinner or trolling a Lake Clear Wabbler and worm.Cranberry Lake plus the Cranberry Lake Wild Forest and Fly fishers use a sinking line to troll streamers, nymphs, andthe Five Ponds Wilderness Area comprise the Cranberry flies.Lake region. The lake itself covers nearly 7,000 acres where40 of the 55 miles of shoreline are state-owned and SMALLMOUTH BASSundeveloped. The lake has a thriving population of smallmouth bass. The 55 miles of shoreline hold bass throughout the summer,BROOK TROUT particularly in rocky stretches, on points, and alongIn the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, Cranberry Lake was a shoreline dropoffs. Other prime spots include similarmecca for brook trout anglers, but a number of factors structure around the lake’s islands. Wind-blown areas cancontributed to the fish’s demise. To restore the brook trout be especially productive. Successful techniques include drifting live minnows or crayfish, casting in-line spinners and small crankbaits, and trolling minnow plugs. Working an area with a jig and minnow, tube bait, or jig and twister tail should put plenty of bronzebacks in the boat. PIKE AND PANFISH Northern pike were not native to the lake, but the fish were illegally introduced a number of years ago. The species has taken hold, and now Cranberry Lake yields pike over 15 pounds. Panfish species include rock bass, yellow perch, brown bullheads, and pumpkinseeds. Panfishing is popular among shore anglers who suspend live bait below a bobber. CAMPING The DEC-operated Cranberry Lake Public Campground features over 150 tent and trailer sites. This popular facility has a picnic area, bathhouse, hot showers, handicapped- accessible sites, handicapped-accessible fishing pier, and marked hiking trails to the peak of Bear Mountain where climbers get an awesome view of Cranberry Lake and surrounding wilderness. Forty-six designated sites along the lake’s shoreline and on Joe Indian Island also offer public camping. Boaters will find public access at a state- owned ramp off State Route 3 near the outlet dam. 28

Ice Fishing populations can be subject to overfishing, anglers are Tournaments encouraged to practice selective harvest.Ice fishing opportunities abound throughout St. Lawrence Catch-and-release tournaments happenCounty. For the most part, anglers will find safe ice from Walleyes are also a possibility during the winter. Again, the virtually year-round in St. Lawrence County,December through March. Although the fishing remains St. Lawrence River and Black Lake rank as the best spots, ranging from annual summer contests for kids tosteady all winter, the very best action occurs at first-ice and but walleyes are also available in Pleasant and Grass lakes world championships for professional anglers forlast-ice. Regulations allow anglers to use five tip-ups and as well as in the Oswegatchie and Grasse rivers. carp and bass. Walleye, northern pike, and eventwo hand lines. muskie fishing challenges are held in hot spots Jigging is the primary technique for winter panfish, and from the St. Lawrence River to Cranberry Lake.Northern pike are the most popular winter game fish. preferred tippings include small minnows or grubs. BlackAnglers target them by suspending live minnows below Lake is especially popular among panfishers who target And ice fishing tournaments across the countytip-ups. All of the St. Lawrence River bays from Chippewa crappies, perch, bluegills, and pumpkinseeds. The St. are now a much anticipated wintertimeto Massena offer good pike fishing as do the bays and Lawrence has quality perch fishing, and some bays haveweed beds at Black Lake. Other good bets for icing pike crappies. Lake Ozonia and Yellow Lake, too, yield panfish highlight for anglers and observers alike. To findare Grass, Pleasant, Yellow, and Cranberry lakes. Since pike during winter. out what’s going on any given weekend, call the County Chamber at 315-386-4000/877-228- 7810 or visit www.fishcap.net for tournament and local fish and game club information. Three lakes are open to year-round trout fishing: Trout Lake, Star Lake, and Lake Ozonia. Trout Lake contains lake trout and rainbows while Star Lake has rainbows. Lake Ozonia has brown trout, rainbow trout, and splake. In addition, Ozonia offers landlocked opportunities. Anglers who use live minnows have the best results. 29

Waddington Chamber of Commerce Proud of our community, its heritage and Take your family for a fun and the many features it has to extend to the unforgettable camping experience. tourists and visitors who visit us each year. Located on the shores of beautiful Black Lake, experience unforgettable Waddington Chamber of Commerce fishing as well as the North Country's P.O. Box 291, Waddington, NY 13694 hospitality and historic charm. www.waddingtonny.com 2628 County Route 6, Black Lake Road, Hammond, NY 13646Wrights Sporting Goods & Marine From the foothills of the Adirondacks to the banks of the St. Lawrence River 315-375-4671 115 Main Street, Morristown, NY 13664 315-375-8841 | [email protected] • Private and shared bathrooms www.northcountrycottagesandcampground.com • Breakfast included • Downtown, country and Find everything you need to From the foothills of the Adirondacks towthaetbearfnroksnotfptrhoepSetr.tLieaswrence River create your perfect stay including: From the foothills of the Adirondacks• to the banks of the St. Lawrence River• • Clean, comfortable rooms BP•••rrieBDPvawrraoiekvtawaeaftkaentefarstafotnraswotnidnnidnntc,scsphlchluruoaao•••ddurrpeeeneeddtWdPSdrrtybiheebaaistota-nhtFadrrhotinro,oadmTonsVmcd,hslAio••ld/nCPSgfher-atoitaveretnanradmidnlcadlyhbsli*tolladeny*gfsr-iteenrmdlys*tays • Free hot breakfast buffet wwwww.stwlaw.sbtbl.acowmbb.com•VaiD6eR•••*n0woCedWSPUwqaheVlawuintoli-nveeiFarBqattwaisno&,uttaideTwelBnaaaVrcvRdRfn,tbhraroo*pleAeii,oiCoollolsadc/alcnniqiCemlcbtolgo6itfryBeiunrsR-••••••asvluip&t0ifveaaeifteinnnyraBenrotrdWPDPBSommiistdtUrfolooaqropahwemtlrVryncnyoiobrsioeueeinnte*otnnvali-ovaaNwrdieaeteiFpatyvriare*eitmqiOvelsktsrwieresnnatiari,ueendfcsWvtar6dtdaaeTufesiionval0.ar!aaasi.eVdbcwo.vdltulnRUera,phranlidvnoon*pleAniitColoa•ll,ioiscaqdcs/alpntiCecimlWhculbeilrugiofroseBeaoirsi-asvdlau-inrR&ptinFveaaeeeitnondienyaBndt,NdrdtoramiiTrdtfmtolooamybOVoiamlencne,ysabrsoeanWsAe*ittnnlinonahNt/ieitCpeyvdirr!o*emsOoelssnaaaaorivevncWvaamdapeiiiillvall.a!aasib.dbbc.luleleeea.l*.. • Free high-speed Internet MapM~ Raepse~rvaRtioensse~rPvhaottoios ns ~ Check *Call B & B to conrCmhinedcivkidual • Flat-panel TVs policies and amAenvitaieislaavbaiillaibtlye! • Boat electrical hookups PhotosAvailability! View availability for over Comfort Inn & Suites adj to Akwesasne Mohawk Casino 60 Unique Rooms in one place... 865 State Route 37 Hogansburg, NY 13655 Request a reservation NOW! BOOK NOW ComfortInnHogansburg.com www.stlawbb.com Check 800.4CHOICE Map ~ Reservations ~ Photos Availability! Cottag ~ OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND ~ O th Shor of Beauti Blac Lak (Grea plac for al se o shin ) 315.375.6541 - Cell: 315-778-4022 2538 A County Route 6, Hammond, NY www.blacklakeny.com/butternutcove 30

Let’s Go Fishin’ Capt. Ed Reyes 103 Stoughton Ave. Massena, NY 13662 We can take you there! www.letsgofishin.us 315-250-8947RIVERVIEW OF WADDINGTON 12508 State Hwy 37 / Waddington, NY 13694MOTEL & COTTAGES www.riverviewofwaddingtonmotel.comBOAT RENTALS [email protected] SHOP P: 315-388-5912 | F: 315-388-4339 For More Information… Call the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce The New York State Department of Environmental (315-386-4000, 877-228-7810) for available county road and Conservation (DEC) offers a number of free publications highway maps, and visit us at www.northcountryguide.com related to fishing county waters, as well as information on for information on where to stay, where to eat, and what to canoeing, camping, and more outdoor activities. Publications do while in St. Lawrence County. Visit St. Lawrence County’s are available through the DEC Region Six Headquarters in official website, too, for information on public and private Watertown (315-785-2239). Anglers will also find information lands, trail systems, and more: www.co.st-lawrence.ny.us. at the DEC website, www.dec.ny.gov. The site contains up-to- date information on regulations for county waters as well as Find out all that the county’s waters have to offer at stocking updates and contour maps of lakes. www.fishcap.net, the website of FISHCAP, the award-winning public/private initiative that promotes fishing across the St. Produced by the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, Lawrence River Valley. The site provides detailed information 101 Main Street, Canton, NY 13617. Special thanks to Mike Seymour, on where to fish, popular species, access points, and more. Tim Damon, Ed Reyes, Bruce Dana Photography, and NNY Business Magazine, a Johnson Newspaper Corporation publication. 31

101 Main St. Canton, NY 13617-1248 | 1-877-228-7810