Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Esopus Creek - Allaben - New York

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Mid Day #16 - #24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
February Midges Mid Day #16 - #24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
March Midges Mid Day #16 - #24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Stoneflies All Day #8 - #14 Stonefly Nymph, Stimulator
April Mayflies All Day #12 - #18 Blue Wing Olive, Hendrickson
Caddisflies All Day #14 - #18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Mayflies All Day #10 - #14 Sulphur, March Brown
Caddisflies All Day #14 - #18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stoneflies All Day #8 - #14 Stonefly Nymph, Stimulator
June Mayflies All Day #10 - #14 Sulphur, March Brown
Caddisflies All Day #14 - #18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Stoneflies All Day #8 - #14 Stonefly Nymph, Stimulator
July Terrestrials All Day #10 - #18 Hopper, Ant Pattern
Caddisflies Evening #14 - #18 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
August Terrestrials All Day #10 - #18 Hopper, Ant Pattern
Tricos Morning #20 - #24 Black Spinner, Trico Dun
September Terrestrials All Day #10 - #18 Hopper, Ant Pattern
Tricos Morning #20 - #24 Black Spinner, Trico Dun
October Blue Wing Olives All Day #16 - #20 Blue Wing Olive Parachute, Blue Wing Olive Comparadun
Stoneflies All Day #8 - #14 Stonefly Nymph, Stimulator
November Blue Wing Olives All Day #16 - #20 Blue Wing Olive Parachute, Blue Wing Olive Comparadun
December Midges Afternoon #16 - #24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Esopus Creek in Allaben offers some of the finest fly fishing spots in New York. These are some top spots in Esopus Creek for fly fishing:

  • Shandaken: This stretch of the creek is known for its abundant trout population. The nearby tunnel outlet is also a popular spot.
  • Boiceville Bridge: Located in the middle sections of Esopus, it provides excellent access to water and is teeming with sizable trout.
  • Phoenicia: It has a mixture of private and public water making for some great fishing. Always ensure to respect private properties.

In addition, remember that Allaben has special regulations including:

  1. Only artificial lures may be used.
  2. The trout season runs from April 1 to October 15.

Enjoy your time on the Esopus and tight lines!

Best Access Points

The Esopus Creek – Allaben offers some of the best fly fishing opportunities in its cool, clear waters. Here are some of the top access points:

  • Allaben Pullout: Located off of Route 28, this spot provides easy walk-in access to the creek.
  • Shandaken Town Park: This spot provides great views of the creek and easy bank access for fishing.
  • Fox Hollow: A challenging hike to the creek but rewarding for the more adventurous angler.
  • Big Indian Park: At the intersection of Route 28 and Route 42, this park has a picnic area and easy creek access.
  • Belleayre Ski Center: Access the creek from the base of the ski resort for a mix of stocked and wild trout.

Remember to respect all private property, and always obtain proper licenses and permits before fishing.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: The Esopus creek is known to thrive with Brown Trout, making it a popular choice for fly fishing.
  • Rainbow Trout: A beautiful and challenging catch, Rainbow Trout are a common target for fly fishing in the waters of the Esopus Creek.
  • Brook Trout: Although lesser in number compared to Rainbow and Brown Trout, fly fishermen often target Brook Trout on the Esopus Creek.
  • American Shad: During the peak fishing season, one can also find American Shad in the Esopus Creek.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Not as commonly targeted, Smallmouth Bass presents a unique battle for fly fishermen in the Esopus Creek.
  • Bluegill: They are also targeted during fly fishing due to their availability in abundance in the Esopus Creek.
  • Pumpkinseed: These small sunfish are also caught on the fly in Esopus Creek.
  • Chain Pickerel: They are often targeted by more experienced fly fishermen due to their ferocious bite and aggressive nature.

About The River

The Esopus Creek – Allaben is a hidden jewel of Ulster County, nested within the famous Catskill Mountains in New York state. This sparkling landmark has its roots deep in the area’s Native American history, bearing the name Esopus which was given by the indigenous Esopus tribe.

The creek showcases the area’s rich ecological diversity, hosting several species of fish, including the vibrant brook trout and brown trout which attract leisure fishers from near and far.

  • 1782 – The Esopus Creek gained recognition as a prominent trading route for the Native Americans and Dutch settlers.
  • 1930s – The area got transformed into a popular leisure destination, recognizing its potential for fishing, camping, and hiking.
  • 2000s – The Creek is still cherished today, attracting leisure seekers and environmental enthusiasts; it is also now the focus of discussions for balancing human activity and conserving nature.

It’s no understatement to say that the Esopus Creek – Allaben is a vibrant thread in the tapestry of New York’s ecological and historical landscape.

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