Thousands of Trout Stocked in Niagara County Waters

The spring trout fishing season is officially underway in New York State. As the rain begins to taper off and warmer temperatures move in, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the water with friends and family. Die-hard anglers have already been casting lines, but for those who are more fair-weather fishermen, the end of this week is shaping up to be ideal.

In a recent update, New York State released its official 2026 trout stocking guide. When you break it down county by county, Niagara County stands out as a prime destination for catching brown and rainbow trout. According to the latest data, thousands of fish have been stocked along the Lake Ontario shoreline and throughout the Niagara River.

Trout fishing is one of the best outdoor activities for families. Once the stocking guide is available, it becomes much easier to find high-probability fishing spots, especially when you’re fishing with kids. If you’re looking to boost your chances, Lake Ontario is one of the top places to start thanks to the large number of stocked fish.

Unsplash

Where Trout Are Being Stocked in Western New York

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has stocked more than 80,000 fish in Lake Ontario and the lower Niagara River alone. That’s a significant boost for anglers looking to reel in trout this season.

If you prefer smaller, more accessible fishing spots, Hyde Park Lake in Niagara Falls received more than 1,800 fish, making it another great option—especially for families or beginner anglers.

Now is the time to get out and take advantage of everything Western New York has to offer. If you’re willing to travel beyond Niagara County, there are plenty of excellent fishing opportunities in Erie, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, along with other nearby areas.