Fishing

The Enchanted Mountains offers anglers plenty of fishing opportunities from 41 access points between 8 public lakes and 22 rivers/streams!

The start of trout season begins with excitement each year in the spring, April 1st. You can also wait for the warm days of summer to cast your line in a quiet, peaceful stream and watch the clouds float along. For the hardier sportsperson, try ice fishing on our lakes during one of those sunny, brilliant wintry days. 

Stream and Creek Fishing:

One of our most popular is Cattaraugus Creek, which borders our county on the north, and has been listed in the top 10 Steelhead Fishing sites by fishing magazines. Other creeks that offer great trout fishing include Clear Creek, Ischua Creek, and Mansfield Creek.

A listing is available of the streams in Cattaraugus County that are stocked with trout. 

Map and Guide for Steelhead Fishing in Cattaraugus Creek. Or read more about this topic with the Guide to Steelhead Fishing in WNY.

The Top Inland Trout Streams in Cattaraugus County.

Lake Fishing:

Fishing in the lakes of Cattaraugus County can offer year round fun. We have 8 public lakes to choose from!

Fishing Guide for Small Lakes in Cattaraugus County.

Statewide Freshwater Fishing Seasons and Catch Limits.

Stocking:

Our lakes, streams and creeks (over 45 sites!) are stocked with fish raised at the Randolph Fish Hatchery, a division of NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.   

Find the Hatchery's Stocking Schedule on NYS Dept of Conservation's site.

Fishing Licenses:

You may need the following fishing licenses before going out fishing on public waters: a New York State Fishing License and/or a Seneca Nation of Indians Fishing License.

Information on NYS Fishing Licenses:

The DEC allows you to purchase online or via phone call. 

Want to purchase a fishing license in person?

Information on Seneca Nation of Indians Fishing Licenses.

Note: If you are fishing on a Seneca Nation of Indians Reservation you need a SNI Fishing license but you do not need a NYS Fishing License. 

Allegany State Park also offers hunting and fishing licenses at the Red House Rental Office located at the Admin Building.  Cash or check payments only. 

Find other Special Fishing Regulations for Cattaraugus County, including size, daily limits and methods. 

Don't have a fishing license?

There is at least one place to take the family fishing without a license and you pay admission.

• Lake Lane Fishing and Hunting Getaway - They offer bass, bullhead, perch, bluegill and various trout.

Fishing Guides

Adventure Bound onthefly offers guided fishing trips, can provide equipment, and offers clinics as well.

Cattaraugus Creek Outfitters for steelhead fishing, learning to fly fish or trout fishing.

Interactive Outdoor Map

Take the places to fish with you using the Cattaraugus County Outdoor Map website.

More to read about Fishing:

• Freshwater Fishing Regulations
• Be sure to get the Public Fishing Rights Map from the NYS DEC

Main Photo is a fish caught from the Cattaraugus Creek. Photo Credit: Sean Carr Photography.