What You'll Find on Esopus Creek
Esopus Creek is a 45-mile freestone stream that runs from the Catskill Mountains down through Ulster County to the Hudson River. The creek holds brown trout and rainbow trout throughout its length, with smallmouth bass in the lower sections where the water warms. The upper reaches near Shandaken are cold and rocky—classic pocket water for fly fishing. The middle section around Mount Pleasant offers a mix of pools and runs. The lower creek near Kingston becomes wider and slower, better suited to spinning and live bait.
The creek's character changes with the seasons and with dam releases from the Ashokan Reservoir, which sits at the creek's headwaters. Spring brings high, cold water and good fishing for a few weeks after the water clears. Summer can be slow during low-flow periods, but evening fishing and early morning produce. Fall is consistent and often the most reliable season. Winter is fishable but cold and requires wading carefully on slippery rocks.
Key Takeaways
- Esopus Creek holds brown and rainbow trout year-round, with smallmouth bass in the lower, warmer sections near Kingston.
- The upper creek near Shandaken is best for fly fishing; the middle and lower sections work for spinning, live bait, and wading.
- Water levels depend on dam releases from Ashokan Reservoir, so check the release schedule before you fish—high water makes wading dangerous.
- New York State requires a fishing license and follows statewide trout regulations; some sections have special rules posted at access points.
- Public access exists at several points along Route 28, but parking is limited and some areas require permission from private landowners.
Access Points and Parking
The most reliable public access is along Route 28, which runs parallel to much of the creek. Near Shandaken, the Esopus Creek Access Area (also called the Shandaken Access) offers a small parking area and direct entry to the upper creek. This is the most popular spot and fills quickly on weekends. From here, you can wade upstream or downstream for several miles, though the upper sections require scrambling over rocks and fallen trees.
The Mount Pleasant area, roughly 10 miles downstream, has informal pull-offs along Route 28 where anglers park and walk down to the creek. These spots are less crowded but parking is tight and unofficial—respect private property and do not block driveways. The Phoenicia area offers another access point with a small lot near the village. The lower creek near Kingston has fewer public access points; much of the land is private, so ask permission before crossing property.
Always check current conditions before driving to a specific access point. High water from dam releases can make some parking areas inaccessible or unsafe. The Ashokan Reservoir releases are scheduled and posted; you can call the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to confirm water levels before you go.
Seasons and Water Conditions
Spring (April through May) brings the most dramatic fishing. As water temperatures rise and flows stabilize after winter, trout become active. The creek can run high and discolored after heavy rain or dam releases, but once it clears—usually within a few days—fishing is excellent. Nymphs and small streamers work well in the faster water. Expect crowds on weekends.
Summer (June through August) is inconsistent. Low flows and warm water stress the trout, especially in the lower sections. Early morning and evening fishing, when water is coolest, produces better results than midday. Smaller flies and lighter tippets are necessary. The smallmouth bass fishing improves as water warms, particularly in the lower creek near Kingston.
Fall (September through November) is the most reliable season. Water temperatures drop, flows are moderate, and trout feed actively. Dry flies work well in September and early October. As water cools further, nymphs and small streamers become more effective. October and November often see the best fishing of the year, with fewer anglers than spring.
Winter (December through March) is fishable but demanding. Water is cold, wading is treacherous on icy rocks, and trout are sluggish. Nymphs fished slowly near the bottom are the primary method. Midday fishing, when water is slightly warmer, is better than early morning or late afternoon.
Fly Fishing the Upper Creek
The upper Esopus near Shandaken is pocket water—short pools separated by fast runs and boulders. Fly fishing here means casting into tight spaces and reading small water. Brown trout dominate; rainbows are less common. Fish hold behind rocks, in the seams between fast and slow water, and in the deeper pockets between runs.
Nymphs are the most productive pattern year-round. Small pheasant tail nymphs, hare's ear, and caddis pupae in sizes 14 to 18 work well. Use a strike indicator and fish tight to the bottom. Dry fly fishing is possible in summer and early fall, especially in the evening. Small Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Parachute Adams in sizes 14 to 16 produce. Streamers work when water is high or discolored; small black or olive patterns in 2 to 3 inches are effective.
Wading the upper creek requires care. The rocks are slippery and the current is strong. A wading staff is useful. Felt-soled waders or boots with good grip are necessary. The water is cold year-round, so neoprene waders are recommended even in summer. Fish early and late in the day when light is low and trout are less spooky.
Spinning and Bait Fishing the Middle and Lower Creek
The middle creek around Mount Pleasant and the lower sections near Kingston are wider and slower than the upper reaches. Spinning works well here, and live bait is effective. Small spinners in silver or gold, spoons, and inline spinners all catch trout. Cast upstream and let the current carry your lure through the pools. Retrieve slowly and pause frequently to let the lure drop.
Live bait fishing—hellgrammites, shiners, and crawfish—produces consistent results, especially in spring and fall. Fish the deeper pools and behind large rocks where trout hold. A simple rig of a small split shot and a size 6 to 8 hook works well. Let the bait drift naturally with the current. The lower creek also holds smallmouth bass, which respond to the same spinners and live bait used for trout.
The lower creek is also accessible to anglers who do not fly fish or wade. Some sections allow fishing from the bank or from a canoe or kayak, though you must portage around any dams or dangerous rapids. Check with local outfitters about water conditions and access before launching a boat.
Regulations and Licenses
New York State requires a fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website, by phone, or at most sporting goods stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is a good option if you are visiting for a short trip.
Esopus Creek follows New York's statewide trout regulations: a daily limit of 5 trout, with a minimum size of 7 inches. Some sections may have special regulations posted at access points—read the signs before you fish. Catch-and-release fishing is allowed year-round. Smallmouth bass have a separate season and size limit; check the current regulations on the DEC website before fishing for bass.
The creek is open to fishing year-round, but the best trout fishing is during the regular season (April through October). Winter fishing is allowed but less productive. Always check the DEC website or call ahead to confirm current regulations, as rules can change.
When to Fish and What to Expect
| Season | Water Conditions | Best Methods | Typical Catch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | High, cold; clears after a few days | Nymphs, small streamers | Brown and rainbow trout; crowds on weekends |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Low, warm; early morning and evening best | Small dry flies, nymphs, live bait | Trout in upper creek; smallmouth bass in lower creek |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Moderate, cool; most consistent | Dry flies early, nymphs and streamers later | Brown and rainbow trout; reliable fishing |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Cold, icy rocks; midday best | Nymphs fished slowly near bottom | Trout; fewer anglers; demanding wading |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to check water levels before I go?
Yes. The Ashokan Reservoir releases affect water levels throughout the creek. High water makes wading dangerous and can close some access points. Call the NYC Department of Environmental Protection or check their website for the current release schedule before you fish. Local fly shops in Phoenicia or Shandaken can also tell you conditions.
Can I fish the lower creek near Kingston without wading?
Some sections allow bank fishing, and canoe or kayak access is possible in lower sections. Much of the lower creek is private land, so ask permission before crossing property. Local outfitters can advise on the best bank-accessible spots and whether water conditions allow paddling.
What is the best time of year to visit if I am new to fly fishing?
Fall (September through November) is ideal. Water is cool, trout are active, and the creek is less crowded than spring. Nymphs and small streamers are reliable patterns. The upper creek near Shandaken is best for learning because the pocket water is forgiving and fish are abundant. Consider hiring a guide for a half day to learn the water and techniques.
Are there outfitters or guides on Esopus Creek?
Yes. Several fly shops and guide services operate in the Catskills near Esopus Creek, particularly in Phoenicia and Shandaken. They offer guided trips, fly fishing lessons, and current information about water conditions and access. A guide can save you time and help you learn the creek faster than fishing alone.
Can I fish for smallmouth bass on Esopus Creek?
Yes, in the lower sections near Kingston where water is warmer. Smallmouth bass season and size limits differ from trout regulations, so check the current New York DEC regulations before you fish. Spinners, live bait, and small streamers all work. The lower creek is less crowded for bass fishing than the upper creek is for trout.