The majestic 146-mile long Raquette River is one of the most popular paddling and fishing destinations in the Adirondack Park. As the river meanders through the Tupper Lake region you will find an amazing series of twists, turns, elbows, and oxbows which make for a both scenic and relaxing angling experience. Since the Raquette River meanders through Simon Pond, Big Tupper Lake, and Raquette Pond before heading towards Piercefield, it is best to discuss the river in two sections (east and west).

Species

Fish species know to be found along this section of the Raquette River include: brown trout, walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, brown bullhead, as wall as both large and smallmouth bass.

Fishing on the Raquette (east of Tupper)

The section of the river between Simon Pond and Raquette Falls truly represents the Adirondacks at it best. The combination of flat-water river setting and marsh habitats make this an excellent fishing spot. In addition, access to Stoney Creek Ponds can be found by traveling upstream. 

Access to this section of the river can be found via the hard surface DEC boat launch (aka “The Crusher") located 4 miles east of Tupper Lake on NYS Routes 3 & 30. A cartop launch is also available further east on Route 3 at Axton Landing off of Corey’s Road (between Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake).

Fishing the Raquette River (west of Tupper Lake)

The flat-water fishing available between Raquette Pond, in the Village of Tupper Lake and Setting Pole Dam, downstream on the river is another great fishing spot. This section of the river does travel past some residential property. However, the fishing near Setting Pole Dam continues to be a popular fishing destination. Access to this section of river is available via a soft-surface launch at the Tupper Lake Municipal Park and a cartop launch near Setting Pole Dam. Plenty of parking is available at both ends of this section of the Raquette River. Primitive camping is allowed at Setting Pole Dam.

Note - Below Setting Pole Dam, the river will continue into Piercefield Flow, another popular fishing destination.