Introduction
At On The Fly Guide Service, my mission is to guide individuals to a fun and enjoyable West Canada Creek fly fishing experience. There’s nothing I love more than spending quality time on the water with good-hearted people. Before booking a guide trip, I always have a conversation with you to understand your goals and objectives for the day. Compatibility is key, going beyond catching fish to create a rewarding guided fly fishing experience.
Catch and Release
Please note that I am a catch and release fly fishing guide. Regardless of NYS DEC game laws regarding fish harvesting, ALL species of fish will be caught and released. Of course, I’m more than happy to take a photo of your catch to capture the memory.
Obtaining a Fishing License
Both New York State residents and non-residents require a valid fishing license. You can easily obtain your NYS fishing license online via the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation or visit stores like Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, local fly shops, camp stores, or bait and tackle shops that offer this service. To obtain your NYS fishing license online visit the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation by following this link: https://decals.east.licensing.app/
Here you will be able to purchase a fishing license for the entire year or for the day(s) you will be fishing with On the Fly Guide Service.
West Canada Creek Guide Trip Time Slot and Duration
Between May and July, our guided fly fishing float trips on West Canada Creek typically begin around 2:30 PM and conclude at twilight, between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM. These trips are strategically scheduled to coincide with the evening mayfly hatch or spinner fall. However, West Canada Creek also provides sporadic hatches throughout the day, so we can accommodate morning or afternoon floats based on your preference. The usual duration is 6 hours on the water, but this can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Wade or Drift:
Most trips cover up to a two-mile stretch of West Canada Creek aboard my Flycraft 14′ Guide boat, accommodating up to two anglers. If you prefer wade-only, we can formulate a game plan around this request. If you need to accommodate more anglers, we have other licensed guides that we work closely with.
Food and Drinks:
For your enjoyment, the YETI Tundra 65 cooler on the gear rack will be stocked with ice, lemonade, iced tea, and spring water. Let us know if you have any specific beverage requests, and we’ll be happy to accommodate. As our float trip runs through dinner time, we also provide light snacks such as granola, dried fruit, and beef jerky. If you prefer to bring your own food and drinks, please feel free to do so. While we do allow guests to enjoy a beer or two, it’s important to maintain a responsible and safe environment.
Fly Fishing Rods
I provide three fly rod selections for anglers to utilize:
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- The Dry Dropper Rig: Orvis Recon 9ft #5 with matching Scientific Anglers Amplitude fly line and a tapered leader.
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- The Nymph Rig: Orvis Recon 10ft #4 with matching Scientific Anglers Amplitude fly line and a tapered leader.
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- The Streamer Chucker: Hardy Marksman II 11ft #5 with RIO Grip Shooter shooting line, a RIO 270 grain Scandi Short shooting head, and an OPST Micro Skagit Sink Tip.
While my setups are well-tuned and perform admirably, you are more than welcome to bring your own preferred fly rod setup. A traditional 9ft. #5 rod with a complementing and balanced fly line and reel, along with a 9 – 12ft 5X tapered leader, is recommended for West Canada Creek.
Flies and Tackle for West Canada Creek
I provide all dry flies, nymphs, and streamers necessary to target trout on West Canada Creek. However, I encourage you to bring along any confidence patterns that have served you well in your fly fishing journey. Trying new and different things can often yield some nice catches.
For those learning to fly fish or those who prefer spinning rods, I have light action spinning rods and a fine selection of artificial lures available.
Outfitting and Apparel
Late spring and summer typically bring gorgeous days on the water, but weather in central NY can change rapidly. I continuously monitor weather patterns and will inform you of expected weather conditions 24 hours prior to the trip. Nonetheless, it’s essential to be prepared. I recommend wearing lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying performance clothing with SPF protection suitable for your skin type. Some go-to options include SIMMS Solarflex Shirts and Kuhl Revolver Rouge Pants.
In June and July, lightweight shorts with similar characteristics are suitable. For those with sensitive skin, don’t forget to bring your preferred SPF lotion. As we might encounter micro cells of rain or a sustained light drizzle, a small backpack or sling pack with a lightweight rain shell and fleece is strongly advised. Evening temperatures can drop, so staying dry is crucial for comfort. Don’t forget a ballcap or fishing hat of your choice and a pair of polarized sunglasses for a pleasant day on the water.
Waders and Wading Boots
Anglers should bring and wear their breathable waders paired with felt-soled wading boots. When water level conditions permit, we may have opportunities to exit the Flycraft and do some wade fishing. However, please note that no form of spikes are allowed on float trips since the Flycraft is an inflatable boat.
For those who don’t own waders or prefer to travel light, I offer Redington breathable waders and Korkers Dark Horse wading boots for rent, available in various sizes.
In July, when air temperatures are elevated but water temperatures remain cooler, it’s a perfect time for wet wading. Feel free to put on wet wading socks, felt sole wading boots, and enjoy the comfort. If water levels or physical limitations require us to stay in the Flycraft for the entire trip, a pair of sandals or water shoes will work just fine.
Guide Rates
Guided Fly Fishing Trips on the West Canada Creek are $300 for one angler and $550 for two anglers. At this time no deposit is required. I only ask that if you book a trip with On The Fly Gide Service that you are fully committed to the trip. Upon the conclusion of the trip I accept Cash, Venmo, Paypal, and Zelle as payment options. I am always grateful for any gratuity above and beyond the guide fee.
Conclusion
With On The Fly Guide Service, you’re in for an unforgettable guided fly fishing experience on West Canada Creek. Come prepared, be comfortable, and get ready for a wonderful day on the water, catching and releasing beautiful brown trout, and creating lasting memories. Head over to our contact us page and let us know the dates you are looking for. Let’s make this fly fishing trip one to remember!
Tight Lines!
Your Guide George Zervos
