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Get ready to hit some of Western New York's most productive waters on this full-day walk and wade trip. We'll be chasing trophy trout and lake-run steelhead in scenic rivers that offer world-class fly fishing opportunities. This isn't your average day on the water – we're talking about an action-packed experience that'll have you hooked from start to finish.
This full-day excursion is all about immersing yourself in the rivers of Western New York. We'll be covering ground, so come prepared for a workout as we navigate rocky terrain and steep banks to access the honey holes where the big fish hang out. I'll provide all the terminal tackle you need, plus expert guidance to help you dial in your technique. We'll break for a provided lunch to refuel, then it's right back to the action. And don't worry about transportation – I've got you covered with shuttle service from your hotel or Airbnb.
Walk and wade fishing is the name of the game here. We'll be slipping into waders and carefully working our way through the river, reading the water and targeting likely holding spots. I'll show you how to approach different sections of the river, from fast riffles to deep pools. We'll use a variety of fly fishing techniques depending on conditions – nymphing, dry fly fishing, and swinging streamers are all on the menu. The rivers here can be challenging, with slippery rocks and strong currents, but that's part of what makes landing a big trout or steelhead so rewarding.
"Tyler is a true professional and takes excellent care of his clients." - Bill "Great day on the water with Tyler! Can't wait to do it again!" - John "Tyler is an exceptionally competent guide who's fun to fish with. Had a great two days fishing with him and his dog Billy. Can't wait to go back again." - James "Tyler was an excellent guide who knew the best spots on all the streams. He also worked tirelessly to change locations, different flies, etc., to ensure a successful trip. Five stars!" - Steve
Smallmouth Bass: These hard-fighting fish are a summertime favorite in Western New York. They love fast water and structure, so we'll target them around boulders and in deep runs. Smallies are known for their acrobatic fights and aggressive strikes, making them a blast on the fly rod. Expect fish in the 1-3 pound range, with the occasional trophy pushing 4 or 5 pounds.
Rainbow Trout: Western New York's rivers are home to some beautiful wild rainbows. These fish are lightning-fast and love to leap when hooked. We'll find them in faster water, often hanging out in the seams between currents. Spring and fall are prime times for rainbows, but they can be caught year-round. Most fish will be in the 12-18 inch range, but don't be surprised if we hook into a 20+ incher.
Steelhead Trout: The crown jewel of Western New York fly fishing, steelhead provide some of the most exciting action you can experience on a fly rod. These lake-run rainbows enter the rivers in fall and stay through spring, offering anglers a chance at true trophy fish. Steelhead in the 5-10 pound range are common, with some giants pushing 15 pounds or more. They're known for blistering runs and spectacular aerial displays when hooked. Battling one of these chrome bullets in a narrow river is an experience you won't soon forget.
This full-day walk and wade trip is your ticket to some of the best fly fishing Western New York has to offer. Whether you're swinging flies for steelhead, nymphing for rainbows, or tossing streamers for smallmouth, you're in for a day of non-stop action. I'll work hard to put you on fish and help you improve your skills along the way. With all gear provided and lunch included, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. Don't miss out on this chance to tangle with some of the hardest-fighting fish in freshwater – book your trip now and let's make some memories on the water!
December 13, 2024
Great day on the water with Tyler! Can't wait to do it again!
December 21, 2023
Tyler is an exceptionally competent guide who’s fun to fish with. Had a great two days fishing with him and his dog Billy. Can’t wait to go back again.
April 6, 2024
Tyler was an excellent guide who knew the best spots on all the streams. He also worked tirelessly to change locations, different flies, etc., to ensure a successful trip. Five stars!
April 9, 2024
Rainbow trout are a favorite among fly anglers in Western New York. These colorful fish typically range from 1-5 pounds, with some trophy specimens reaching 10 pounds or more. You'll find them in cool, clear streams and rivers, often holding in riffles, pools, and near undercut banks. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but they can be caught year-round. Rainbows are known for their spectacular fights, often leaping clear out of the water when hooked. They're also excellent table fare, with pink, flaky meat. Fly fishing with nymphs or dry flies is the go-to method, but spinners and small spoons work well too. A local secret: during summer, target the deeper, cooler pockets of water where rainbows seek refuge from the heat. Approach these spots carefully - these fish spook easily in low, clear water.

Smallmouth bass are a blast to target in Western New York. These bronze beauties average 2-4 pounds but can grow up to 8 pounds in our waters. You'll find them hanging around rocky areas, submerged logs, and drop-offs in rivers and lakes. They're most active in late spring through early fall when water temps are between 60-75°F. Smallies are known for their acrobatic fights - they'll leap out of the water and make strong runs that'll test your gear. They're also great eating fish with firm, white meat. When targeting smallmouth, I like to use tube jigs or crawfish imitations bounced along the bottom. A local tip: focus on current seams and eddies where smallies wait to ambush prey. These fish are wary, so a stealthy approach is key to getting more bites.

Steelhead fishing in Western New York is some of the best you'll find anywhere. These lake-run rainbows average 5-10 pounds, with some monsters topping 15 pounds. They migrate into our tributaries from Lake Ontario in fall and spring, providing world-class fishing opportunities. Look for them in deeper pools, behind large boulders, and at the tailouts of runs. Fall through spring is prime time, with water temperature playing a crucial role in their behavior. Steelhead are prized for their incredible strength and acrobatic fights - hooking one is like tying into a freight train. Fly fishing with egg patterns, nymphs, or swinging streamers is highly effective. Centerpin fishing is also popular among locals. Here's a pro tip: focus on fishing the "transitional water" between fast and slow currents where steelhead often hold. Patience and persistence are key when targeting these silver bullets.

Tyler is a true professional and takes excellent care of his clients.