The place was Maxwell Creek. The date was November 20, 2010 when Alan Lockhart of Elmira, NY caught this incredible brown trout. After a quick photo the fish was released to fight another day. It was estimated to be in the 10 to 12 pound range. The big brown fell victim to a drifting egg sac.

In the fall Maxwell Creek has good Salmon, Brown Trout and Steelhead spawning runs, however since it is located so close to a major population center it can get very crowded. Try fishing here during the week instead of the weekends, and please practice catch and release to help ensure the future of our fishery.

Maxwell Creek is located a couple miles west of Sodus Point NY. It is a small stream and not nearly as famous as the other tributaries of Lake Ontario. However the fish which swim in its water are just as big and fun to catch. Maxwell Creek has just under 2 miles of fishable waters and is divided into two sections the upper and lower.

The upper section is more of a stream bed cut in the shale with deep pools and some quick riffles. A severe storm in 2003 broke down many of the trees which line its banks and there are still lots of timber in the stream which can hold fish, but makes the fishing more difficult.

The lower section is a estuary environment with a slight current. The bottom is mostly mud and muck with lots of sticks and some stones. Wading here is a risky proposition you will sink in very quickly. Fishing here is mainly from shore with most fisherman fishing egg sacs or live bait under a small bobber. Some fisherman also fish streamers, flies, or jigs under a small float with great success. During low water periods many fisherman will wade in the lake where the stream enters and cast spoons for the steelhead, browns and salmon that are awaiting the fall rains.

   The following links break down the best fishing options according to the month of the year. Certain times of the year present excellent fishing opportunities for differnt species and can help make the best of your limited free time.