Burt Dam New York: Uncover Top Fishing Spots & Hidden Gems!

For any serious angler seeking premier freshwater opportunities, the waters surrounding Burt Dam New York offer an unparalleled experience. This renowned destination is celebrated for its incredible salmon and trout runs, attracting avid fishermen with their well-honed techniques and specialized fishing tackle. Understanding the nuances of current conditions and seasonal migrations is crucial for a successful outing, transforming a simple fishing trip into a truly rewarding adventure.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Berserking History , from the video titled Bushwhacking Buffalo - Burt Dam .

Welcome, fellow anglers, to an exploration of one of New York State’s most treasured fishing locales: Burt Dam. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Niagara County, this isn't just another fishing spot; it's a vibrant ecosystem renowned for its diverse angling opportunities and productive waters. If you're seeking a place where the thrill of the catch meets serene natural beauty, Burt Dam is your premier destination.

Burt Dam: A Premier Angling Haven

Burt Dam has earned its reputation as a premier fishing destination in New York for excellent reasons. It's a magnet for both novice and seasoned anglers, offering a remarkable variety of game fish throughout the year. From the powerful runs of Chinook salmon and Coho salmon in the fall to the elusive steelhead and brown trout during cooler months, and even robust smallmouth bass and walleye in warmer seasons, the angling possibilities are extensive. The consistent flow of nutrient-rich water creates an ideal environment, ensuring healthy fish populations and exciting challenges for those who cast a line.

Locating Your Next Great Catch: Niagara County's Gem

The strategic location of Burt Dam is key to its fishing prowess. It is centrally situated in Niagara County, a region of Western New York celebrated for its rich natural resources. The dam itself is an integral part of the Eighteenmile Creek system, a significant tributary that originates inland and flows northwest, eventually emptying into Lake Ontario. This crucial connection to the Great Lakes not only influences the creek’s water quality and temperature but also facilitates the seasonal migrations of anadromous fish, making Burt Dam a focal point for their journeys upstream. Understanding this geographical context is vital for anticipating fish movements and planning your angling excursions.

Your Guide to Unlocking Burt Dam's Secrets

This guide is designed to be your comprehensive companion, illuminating the best of what Burt Dam has to offer. We're committed to guiding anglers to the best fishing spots within and around the dam area, providing practical insights into where the fish are biting. Beyond the popular and well-known locations, we'll also reveal some of the hidden gems around Burt Dam New York, those less-frequented but highly productive areas that can yield truly memorable catches. Prepare to uncover insider tips, essential gear advice, and strategic approaches that will enhance your fishing experience and maximize your success on the water.

While our introduction offered a glimpse into the angling allure of Burt Dam, it's time to dive deeper into why this specific location stands out as a premier fishing destination in New York. Its unique geography, particularly the symbiotic relationship between Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek, creates an ecological haven that attracts a remarkable diversity of fish and offers unparalleled opportunities for anglers.

Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek: A Prime Angling Destination

The confluence of engineered design and natural flow defines the exceptional fishing environment found at Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek. Located in Newfane, Niagara County, this area is not just a landmark but a vital artery for the region's robust fishery, offering a dynamic and productive setting for both novice and experienced anglers.

The Significance of Burt Dam in New York's Fishing Landscape

Burt Dam itself plays a pivotal role in the New York fishing scene, especially for those targeting migratory species from Lake Ontario. As a barrier on Eighteenmile Creek, the dam creates a significant pooling area below it. This deep, oxygenated water acts as a natural magnet, causing anadromous fish – those that spend most of their lives in Lake Ontario but return to freshwater to spawn – to congregate. This concentration of fish, particularly during their seasonal runs, provides anglers with a prime opportunity to intercept large numbers of popular game fish. The dam essentially serves as a bottleneck, making it a highly productive and easily accessible fishing spot during peak seasons.

Eighteenmile Creek: Diverse and Productive Fishing Waters

Flowing into Lake Ontario, Eighteenmile Creek is a vital tributary that contributes immensely to the area's rich fishing environment. The creek's consistent flow of cold, clear water is critical for supporting healthy populations of cold-water species, especially salmon and trout. Its path through varying terrain creates a diverse range of fishing spots:

• Fast-moving riffles: Ideal for feeding trout.
• Deep pools and runs: Offering excellent holding water for larger, migratory fish.
• Undercut banks and fallen timber: Providing crucial cover and ambush points for predatory species.
• Gravel beds: Essential spawning grounds for many of the highly sought-after fish.

This varied aquatic topography, coupled with the creek's direct connection to the abundant waters of Lake Ontario, ensures a constant influx of fish and a dynamic angling experience that changes with the seasons and water levels.

Natural Features Attracting Diverse Fish Species

The combined natural features of Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek are precisely what make this location a beacon for various fish species. The deep, churning water directly below Burt Dam is a famous plunge pool that attracts massive Chinook Salmon and Coho Salmon during their powerful fall spawning runs, often in September and October. As these salmonids navigate upstream, they utilize the creek's varied structure.

Following the salmon, the creek becomes a hotbed for Steelhead (Rainbow Trout) and Brown Trout throughout the late fall, winter, and spring. These hard-fighting fish are drawn to the creek for spawning or to feed on salmon eggs and other available forage. The creek's consistent flow, natural cover, and the presence of abundant prey contribute to a healthy ecosystem that supports not only these prized game fish but also a variety of other species such as Smallmouth Bass and various panfish in slower, warmer sections. It’s this intricate web of hydrological features and ecological balance that solidifies Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek's reputation as a truly exceptional multi-species fishery.

Having explored the unique geography and ecological features that establish Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek as a premier angling destination, the next crucial step is to pinpoint exactly where to cast your line for the best results. This section offers practical guidance, detailing the most popular and productive fishing spots around Burt Dam, complete with recommended techniques and target species to maximize your chances of a successful catch.

Top Fishing Spots Near Burt Dam

Navigating the waters around Burt Dam offers anglers a wealth of opportunities, from readily accessible shorelines to more challenging wading stretches. Knowing where to go and what to expect is key to a rewarding day on Eighteenmile Creek.

Productive Access Points and Stretches

The area immediately surrounding Burt Dam and the stretches of Eighteenmile Creek flowing out from it are highly regarded for their consistent fish populations, particularly during migratory runs.

• Below the Dam: The waters directly below Burt Dam are arguably the most popular and productive. This area provides excellent access for shore anglers, often yielding impressive catches, especially during the fall salmon and steelhead runs. The turbulent water here provides a rich oxygenated environment that attracts fish.
• Public Access Points: Several public access points and informal trails line Eighteenmile Creek as it winds downstream from the dam. These spots, often found near road crossings like Burt Dam Road (NY-104) and local parks, offer diverse fishing environments. Anglers can find slower pools, faster riffles, and deeper pockets within these accessible stretches.
• Upstream Areas: While the area below the dam is famous, the upstream sections of Eighteenmile Creek, though less directly influenced by the dam's outflow, can also hold fish, particularly native trout and bass during warmer months. Access here might require more exploration but can offer a quieter experience.

Recommended Techniques for Each Area

The diverse structure of Eighteenmile Creek necessitates adapting your fishing techniques to the specific spot you're targeting.

• Shore Fishing: This is the most common and accessible method, especially directly below Burt Dam and at designated public access points. Heavy spinning gear with roe bags, spawn sacs, or single eggs drifted under a float are highly effective for steelhead and salmon. For brown trout and bass, casting spoons, spinners, or crankbaits from the bank can yield results.
• Wading: For anglers willing to get into the water, wading opens up access to more of the creek's structure. This technique is particularly effective in the riffles and runs downstream from the dam, allowing for precise drifts with flies or small baits. Studded waders are highly recommended due to the rocky bottom, and a wading staff can provide crucial stability in currents.
• Drift Fishing: Whether from shore or while wading, drift fishing is a cornerstone technique on Eighteenmile Creek. This involves allowing your bait or lure to drift naturally with the current, mimicking free-floating food sources. Using a light leader and minimal weight is crucial to achieve a natural presentation. This method is exceptionally effective for targeting migratory fish that are actively feeding or holding in specific current lanes.

Common Fish Species Targeted

The rich ecosystem of Eighteenmile Creek, influenced by its connection to Lake Ontario, supports a variety of prized game fish throughout the year.

• Steelhead (Rainbow Trout): These migratory trout are perhaps the most sought-after species, with strong runs occurring from late fall through spring. They are incredibly powerful fighters, often targeted with egg imitations, stonefly nymphs, or small streamers.
• Chinook Salmon (King Salmon): Dominant in the fall, Chinook salmon ascend the creek from Lake Ontario to spawn. Anglers often target them with large spawn sacs, skein, or brightly colored artificial lures. They are known for their immense size and powerful runs.
• Coho Salmon: Also present during the fall run, Coho salmon are smaller than Chinooks but offer an equally exciting fight. They often respond well to smaller egg patterns, bright flies, and small spoons.
• Brown Trout: While some brown trout are resident, larger migratory "Lake Run" brown trout enter the creek during the fall and spring. They can be caught using similar methods to steelhead, often preferring darker-colored patterns or minnow imitations.
• Smallmouth Bass: During the warmer months (late spring through early fall), the creek's lower sections near the lake, as well as deeper pools, hold healthy populations of smallmouth bass. They are aggressive biters and can be targeted with soft plastics, crankbaits, and various topwater lures.

While the popular spots near Burt Dam offer reliable action and a high probability of success, the true thrill for many anglers lies beyond the well-trodden path. If you've mastered the main fishing areas and are craving a deeper connection with nature, a more profound challenge, and the potential for a truly memorable catch, Niagara County holds secrets waiting to be discovered.

Uncovering Hidden Gems for the Adventurous Angler

Beyond the easily accessible and well-frequented fishing spots near Burt Dam lies a different kind of angling experience—one of solitude, discovery, and often, richer rewards. These are the hidden gems, stretches of Eighteenmile Creek and other waterways in Niagara County that demand a bit more effort to reach but deliver an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. Venturing into these less-frequented areas isn't just about catching fish; it's about immersing yourself in the quiet beauty of nature and testing your instincts against less-pressured waters.

Strategies for Discovering Secluded Fishing Spots

Identifying and exploring these secluded fishing spots requires a blend of research, observation, and a willingness to explore. For anglers eager to venture off the beaten path, here’s how to uncover your own private havens within Niagara County:

• Topographic and Satellite Maps: Begin your quest from home. Utilize online tools like Google Maps satellite view or dedicated topographical maps. Look for bends in Eighteenmile Creek that are far from roads or obvious access points. Pay attention to changes in elevation, which might indicate rapids, deeper pools, or less accessible terrain that deters casual visitors.
• Unmarked Trails and Faint Paths: When physically exploring, keep an eye out for faint trails leading away from main access points. These might be old game trails or paths used by a select few. Always be mindful of private property boundaries and respect land ownership.
• Off-Peak Exploration: Visiting areas during less popular times (e.g., weekdays, early mornings, or during inclement weather) can sometimes reveal hidden access points or quiet stretches that are usually bustling.
• Observe Water Flow and Structure: Once you find a potential spot, study the water. Look for natural structures like fallen trees, large boulders, or current breaks that could hold fish. These less-pressured areas often develop more complex habitats.

The Unique Appeal of Hidden Gems

The allure of these hidden gems extends far beyond simply catching fish. They offer a distinct set of rewards that make the extra effort worthwhile:

• Unrivaled Tranquility: Escaping the crowds is perhaps the most immediate benefit. In these secluded spots, the primary sounds you'll hear are the gentle rush of the creek, the rustle of leaves, and the calls of local wildlife. This solitude provides a deep sense of peace, allowing for a more focused and meditative fishing experience.
• A Greater Challenge: Accessing these areas often involves navigating uneven terrain, wading through trickier currents, or employing more subtle presentation techniques. The fish in these less-frequented waters are typically warier, having seen fewer lures and less human presence. This adds a layer of challenge that seasoned anglers often crave, turning each hook-up into a true triumph of skill and patience.
• Potential for Larger Fish Species: Less fishing pressure generally equates to less disturbed fish populations. In these pristine environments, Fish Species such as migratory steelhead, brown trout, and salmon (depending on the season) often grow larger and are less wary. While not guaranteed, the potential to encounter a trophy-sized fish is significantly higher in these untouched havens, making the journey to uncover them incredibly rewarding.

While discovering a secluded fishing spot offers its own unique satisfaction, truly maximizing your angling adventure requires understanding what lies beneath the surface. Knowing the specific fish species that inhabit Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek, and how to effectively target them, transforms a good day into a great one.

Targeting Specific Fish Species at Burt Dam

Burt Dam and the lower sections of Eighteenmile Creek offer a remarkably diverse fishery, driven by their connection to Lake Ontario. This area serves as a critical migratory pathway and habitat for a variety of popular game fish. Understanding their seasonal movements and preferred feeding habits is key to consistent success. This section provides a comprehensive guide to the species you’re likely to encounter, along with practical tips for landing them.

Chinook and Coho Salmon

The Chinook Salmon, also known as "Kings," are the giants of the creek, while Coho Salmon offer a vigorous fight on lighter tackle. Both species undertake impressive spawning runs up Eighteenmile Creek.

• Season: The Chinook Salmon run typically begins in late August and peaks through September, often extending into early October. Coho Salmon generally follow, with their peak run occurring from late September through October.
• Strategy: During their anadromous migration, salmon are primarily focused on spawning, not feeding. However, they will aggressively strike out of instinct or annoyance. Concentrate efforts in deeper pools, current seams, and near the fish ladder at Burt Dam.
• Baits & Lures: Popular choices include natural egg sacs (especially chartreuse, pink, or orange), skein, large spoons (silver, blue/silver, glow), and crankbaits that imitate wounded baitfish. Drifting jigs tipped with a wax worm or soft plastic can also be highly effective.

Steelhead (Rainbow Trout)

Steelhead are Lake Ontario-run rainbow trout, renowned for their incredible strength and acrobatic fights. They follow the salmon runs into the tributaries, feeding on loose eggs and small baitfish, and then embark on their own spawning migration in the spring.

• Season: The fall steelhead run kicks off in October and continues through the winter months, offering excellent ice fishing opportunities in calmer sections. The spring steelhead run, driven by spawning instincts, typically peaks from March through May.
• Strategy: Steelhead often hold in current breaks, behind large rocks, in deeper runs, and below riffles. They are opportunistic feeders. Look for areas where the current slows slightly, allowing them to conserve energy while waiting for food.
• Baits & Lures: Egg sacs (especially those imitating salmon eggs), trout beads, nymphs (for fly anglers), small spoons (silver, gold, copper), and jigs tipped with live bait like wax worms or emerald shiners are all highly effective. Fly fishing with egg patterns, stoneflies, or small streamers can be very productive.

Brown Trout

Brown Trout are a resilient and often elusive species found in Eighteenmile Creek, known for their preference for cooler, more structured waters. While some are resident, others are Lake Ontario-run fish that move into the creek.

• Season: Brown trout can be targeted year-round, but they are particularly active during the cooler months of fall, winter, and spring. Summer fishing can be challenging as they seek out colder, deeper pockets.
• Strategy: Look for brown trout near undercut banks, submerged logs, rock piles, and deep pools that offer cover and ambush points. They are often more active during low-light conditions, such as dawn, dusk, or on overcast days.
• Baits & Lures: Minnow imitations such as small stickbaits (e.g., Rapalas), spinners (Mepps, Rooster Tail), and spoons are effective. Live bait like nightcrawlers or shiners fished under a float or on the bottom can also produce results. Fly anglers use streamers, nymphs, and dry flies, depending on conditions and insect hatches.

Smallmouth Bass

Eighteenmile Creek also boasts a healthy population of Smallmouth Bass, a hard-fighting game fish known for its aggressive strikes and aerial acrobatics.

• Season: The best time to target smallmouth bass is from late spring (May) through early fall (October), with peak activity during the warmer summer months.
• Strategy: Smallmouth bass prefer rocky areas, gravel bottoms, current breaks, and submerged timber. Cast near bridge pilings, rock outcroppings, and anywhere current creates an eddy or seam. They are often found in moderate depths, around 4-15 feet.
• Baits & Lures: Crayfish imitations (jigs, soft plastic tubes), crankbaits (shallow to medium divers), spinnerbaits, and topwater lures are all excellent choices. Live bait such as shiners or crayfish can also be very effective.

By understanding the seasonal movements and specific preferences of these key species, anglers visiting Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek can significantly increase their chances of a successful and memorable fishing experience. Don't forget that patience and adaptability are just as crucial as the right lure.

Now that you're well-versed in the diverse fish species inhabiting Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek, the next crucial step is understanding the rules of engagement. A successful and enjoyable angling experience isn't just about the catch; it's about fishing responsibly and legally.

Essential Fishing Regulations for New York Anglers

Before you cast your line into the productive waters of Burt Dam or Eighteenmile Creek, it's paramount to ensure you're fully compliant with all necessary fishing regulations. This vital section breaks down New York State and specific Niagara County fishing laws, safeguarding both the local ecosystem and your angling experience. Adhering to these guidelines ensures you contribute to the sustainability of the fishery while avoiding potential fines.

General New York State Fishing Regulations

New York State implements a comprehensive set of fishing regulations designed to protect fish populations and ensure fair chase. These statewide rules form the foundation for all angling activities and apply broadly across New York's vast network of waterways, including areas like Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek. Key aspects include:

• Season Dates: Most fish species have specific open seasons during which they can be legally harvested. These seasons are determined by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to coincide with periods when fish are not spawning or are abundant enough to withstand angling pressure.
• Minimum Size Limits: To allow fish to reach maturity and reproduce, many species have a minimum size limit. Any fish caught below this size must be immediately and carefully released back into the water.
• Daily Creel Limits: A daily creel limit dictates the maximum number of fish of a particular species an angler can keep in a single day. This prevents overharvesting and helps maintain healthy fish populations.
• Gear Restrictions: Certain types of bait, lures, or fishing methods may be restricted or prohibited in specific waters to protect fish or prevent overfishing. For instance, some areas may only allow artificial lures or single hooks.

It's imperative to consult the official NYSDEC Fishing Regulations Guide annually, as rules can change. This guide is your most reliable source for the most current and detailed information.

Navigating Local & Waterbody-Specific Rules

While statewide regulations provide a baseline, many specific waterways, especially highly popular ones like Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek within Niagara County, often have additional, more localized rules. These specific regulations are put in place to manage unique fisheries, protect sensitive species, or address specific angling pressures in a particular area.

For Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek, which are significant tributaries to Lake Ontario, you'll often find special regulations related to migratory fish species like salmon and steelhead. These can include:

• Creel and Size Limits: While general rules apply, these specific water bodies might have more restrictive daily limits or larger minimum sizes for popular species like Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, or Steelhead. For example, specific harvest seasons or size limits might apply to these species.
• Gear Prohibitions: Certain sections of Eighteenmile Creek, especially during peak runs, may have specific gear restrictions. This could include limitations on the number of hooks, the use of weighted treble hooks, or even a ban on certain types of bait to prevent snagging or reduce incidental catch.
• Closed Areas or Periods: Certain areas around the dam or within the creek might be temporarily closed to fishing during critical spawning periods or for safety reasons.

Always pay close attention to signs posted at access points along Eighteenmile Creek and Burt Dam, and always cross-reference with the Niagara County-specific section of the NYSDEC Fishing Regulations Guide.

Your Essential New York State Fishing License

The single most crucial legal requirement for fishing in New York State is possessing a valid New York State fishing license. This license is a fundamental part of responsible angling and directly supports conservation efforts.

• Who Needs One?: Generally, anyone aged 16 or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in New York's freshwaters. There are some exceptions, such as fishing on certain licensed fishing preserves or during designated "Free Fishing Days" where a license is not required.
• Why It's Important: The revenue generated from license sales directly funds NYSDEC programs dedicated to fish stocking, habitat improvement, research, and enforcement. By purchasing a license, you're directly contributing to the health and abundance of New York's fisheries.
• How to Obtain: Licenses can be easily purchased online through the NYSDEC website, by phone, or in person at various license issuing agents located throughout the state (e.g., sporting goods stores, town clerk offices).
• Always Carry It: Once purchased, it is a legal requirement to carry your fishing license on your person while fishing. This ensures you can present it to an environmental conservation officer upon request.

By understanding and adhering to these essential regulations, you're not only ensuring a legal outing but also playing a vital role in preserving the fantastic fishing opportunities at Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek for future generations.

With the legalities of New York fishing firmly understood, your focus can now shift to the exciting part: maximizing your success on the water. This section dives into practical strategies for a rewarding Burt Dam fishing trip, ensuring you're well-equipped and prepared for a memorable angling experience.

Practical Tips for a Successful Burt Dam Fishing Trip

Prepare for your adventure with expert advice on gear, optimal conditions, and safety. This section equips you with all the practical knowledge needed to make your Burt Dam fishing trip both successful and memorable.

Recommended Gear and Equipment

The diverse fish species at Burt Dam and Eighteenmile Creek necessitate a varied approach to gear. Your setup should be tailored to the species you target.

For Salmon and Steelhead

These powerful fish require robust equipment.

• Rods: A medium-heavy to heavy spinning or baitcasting rod, typically 8 to 10 feet in length, offers the leverage needed for long casts and fighting strong fish in moving water.
• Reels: Choose a durable spinning or baitcasting reel with a smooth drag system, spooled with 15-20 lb monofilament or braided line. Consider a fluorocarbon leader of 10-15 lb for its invisibility.
• Lures/Bait: Popular choices include egg sacs, drift beads, small brightly colored spoons (like Little Cleos or Koho spoons), spinners, and various jigs tipped with wax worms or plastics. For fly anglers, egg patterns, stoneflies, and streamers are effective.

For Bass, Pike, and Panfish

While often overlooked with the salmon/steelhead hype, Burt Dam can offer excellent fishing for these species during warmer months.

• Rods: A medium-action spinning rod (6-7 feet) is versatile for bass and pike. A lighter ultralight setup is perfect for panfish like bluegill and crappie.
• Reels: Match your reel to your rod, spooled with 8-12 lb line for bass/pike and 4-6 lb line for panfish.
• Lures/Bait: For bass and pike, consider crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and soft plastics. Live bait such as shiners or worms can be very effective. Panfish respond well to small jigs, worms, or corn.

Regardless of your target, always carry essential tackle like extra hooks, sinkers, swivels, and a pair of pliers for hook removal. A net is indispensable for landing larger fish safely.

Optimal Times and Weather Conditions

Timing and conditions are crucial for maximizing your catch rate at Burt Dam.

Seasonal Peaks

• Fall (September - November): This is prime time for the Pacific salmon (Chinook and Coho) run from Lake Ontario into Eighteenmile Creek. Steelhead and brown trout often follow closely behind.
• Late Fall through Spring (November - April): The steelhead run is strong during these colder months, with fish moving in and out of the creek as water temperatures and flows dictate. Brown trout are also present.
• Summer (June - August): While salmon and steelhead activity lessens, this is excellent for targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, and various panfish.

Time of Day and Weather

• Dawn and Dusk: These low-light periods are often the most productive for many species, as fish are more active and feeding.
• Overcast Days: Cloudy skies can extend productive fishing times throughout the day, as bright sun can make fish wary.
• Stable Weather: Drastic changes in weather (e.g., sudden cold fronts) can often shut down a bite. Look for periods of stable barometric pressure.
• Water Levels and Flow: For river and creek fishing like Eighteenmile Creek, water levels and clarity are paramount. After heavy rains, the creek may become high and muddy, making fishing difficult. Ideal conditions are often dropping or stable water levels after a rain, with improving clarity. Check local river gauges before your trip.

Safety Precautions and Ethical Fishing Practices

Your safety and the well-being of the fish and environment are paramount.

Safety First

• Waders and Footwear: If wading, invest in good quality waders with felt-soled or studded boots for traction on slippery rocks.
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Especially when fishing near swift currents or deeper sections, wearing a PFD is a wise precaution.
• Weather Monitoring: Conditions can change rapidly. Check the forecast before you go and be prepared for rain, wind, or sudden temperature drops.
• Awareness of Surroundings: Be mindful of slippery banks, steep drop-offs, and other anglers. During peak runs, spots can be crowded, requiring extra vigilance.
• First-Aid Kit: Carry a basic kit for minor cuts, scrapes, or other unexpected incidents.

Ethical Angling Practices

• Catch and Release: For many species, especially salmon and steelhead during their spawning runs, catch and release is strongly encouraged to help sustain populations. Check local regulations for specific mandates.
• Proper Fish Handling:
  • Minimize Air Exposure: Keep fish in the water as much as possible.
  • Wet Hands: Always wet your hands before touching a fish to protect its protective slime coat.
  • Support the Fish: Support the fish horizontally, especially larger fish, to avoid damaging internal organs. Avoid holding by the jaw if it causes the body to sag.
  • De-barbed Hooks: Consider pinching down the barbs on your hooks to make hook removal quicker and less damaging to the fish.
  • Quick Release: Remove the hook swiftly and release the fish gently, head-first into the current. If the fish is lethargic, hold it upright in the current until it swims away on its own.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in, including fishing line, bait containers, and any other trash. Respect private property and the natural environment.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the fishing adventures awaiting you at Burt Dam New York are truly memorable. Pack your gear, check the conditions, and prepare for some fantastic catches!