Dive-site story
Drifting through the Upper Niagara River offers a fast-paced freshwater river experience above the falls. Divers ride the steady river current past bedrock shelves, clay banks, and rocky bottom formations while encountering indigenous Great Lakes fish species. Maintaining neutral buoyancy and trailing a surface marker buoy are essential to navigate past boat traffic and river hazards safely.
Fast-paced river drift over gravel beds and clay ledges
Frequent encounters with native Great Lakes sportfish
Hunting for historical riverbed artifacts, old bottles, and fishing tackle
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Summer months provide the most comfortable water temperatures and optimal river visibility.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smallmouth bassMicropterus dolomieu | Common | ||||||||||||
| Freshwater drumAplodinotus grunniens | Common | ||||||||||||
| MuskellungeEsox masquinongy | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| WalleyeSander vitreus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Lake sturgeonAcipenser fulvescens | Rare |
Marine forecast
