The Area
Things to Do
From world-class fishing to quiet afternoons at a state park, there's a reason people keep coming back to this stretch of the Oak Orchard River.
The Main Event
Fishing the Oak Orchard River
The Oak Orchard River is one of the premier fisheries in the Great Lakes region. The property sits directly on the river with private access — walk down to the water from the cottage without needing a car or a public access point.
The fall salmon run (October–November) draws anglers from across the Northeast for Chinook and Coho salmon. Spring and summer bring steelhead, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Whether you're fly fishing from the bank or heading out with a local guide, you're in the right spot.
Fishing Calendar
What's Running and When
The Oak Orchard fishes year-round, but different seasons bring different opportunities.
Fall (Oct–Nov)
Peak season. Chinook salmon, Coho salmon, and steelhead trout make their annual run up the river. This is what puts the Oak Orchard on the map.
Spring (Mar–May)
Steelhead trout return in strong numbers. Brown trout fishing picks up as water temperatures rise. Great fly fishing conditions.
Summer (Jun–Sep)
Smallmouth bass in the river and world-class Lake Ontario charter fishing for king salmon, steelhead, and lake trout just minutes away.
On the Water
Beyond Fishing
The Oak Orchard River isn't just for anglers. Bring a kayak or canoe and explore the quiet stretches of the river that run through wooded banks and farmland. Swimming is popular in summer at the calmer sections.
Lake Ontario is a five-minute drive north, with beaches, boat launches, and some of the best sunsets in western New York.
Nearby
What's Around Here
Lakeside Beach State Park
Five minutes away. A quiet Lake Ontario beach with rocky shores, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Great for a half-day trip with kids.
Oak Orchard Marine Park
Five minutes north. Public boat launch for Lake Ontario access, plus fishing from the harbor. Charter fishing boats depart from here daily in season.
Local Wineries & Farms
Orleans County is wine and farm country. Visit local wineries for tastings, or stop at a farmstand for fresh produce, cider, and baked goods.
Location
Getting Here
Crooked Creek is located in Waterport, NY — about an hour east of Niagara Falls and 45 minutes west of Rochester.
Distances from the Cottage
- Oak Orchard RiverOn-site (walk down)
- Lake Ontario5 min drive
- Lakeside Beach State Park5 min drive
- Oak Orchard State Marine Park5 min drive
- Oak Orchard Lighthouse7 min drive
- Medina (restaurants, grocery)15 min drive
- Rochester, NY45 min drive
- Niagara Falls60 min drive
- Buffalo, NY70 min drive