1. Rainbow trout (_Oncorhynchus mykiss_): This popular game fish is known for its vibrant colors and strong fighting ability. Rainbow trout are stocked in the Genesee River by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to provide angling opportunities.
2. Brown trout (_Salmo trutta_): Another sought-after game fish, brown trout are characterized by their brown or olive-colored bodies with dark spots. They prefer cool, clear waters and can be found in the upper sections of the Genesee River.
3. Chinook salmon (_Oncorhynchus tshawytscha_): Chinook salmon, also known as king salmon, are anadromous fish that migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers to spawn. They are occasionally found in the lower Genesee River, near its mouth at Lake Ontario.
4. Coho salmon (_Oncorhynchus kisutch_): Similar to Chinook salmon, coho salmon are also anadromous fish that return to the Genesee River to spawn. They are smaller than Chinook salmon and have a silvery body with a blue-green back.
5. Atlantic salmon (_Salmo salar_): Once abundant in the Genesee River, Atlantic salmon populations declined significantly due to overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are underway to restore their presence in the river.
6. Lake trout (_Salvelinus namaycush_): Lake trout are deep-water fish that prefer cold, well-oxygenated waters. They are found in the deeper sections of the Genesee River and Lake Ontario.
7. Smallmouth bass (_Micropterus dolomieu_): Smallmouth bass are a popular freshwater game fish known for their bronze-colored bodies and aggressive behavior. They are common in the rocky areas and riffles of the Genesee River.
8. Largemouth bass (_Micropterus salmoides_): Largemouth bass are another popular game fish that can be found in various habitats throughout the Genesee River. They prefer warm, vegetated waters and are known for their large mouths.
9. Northern pike (_Esox lucius_): Northern pike are voracious predators with long, slender bodies and sharp teeth. They are found in the shallow, weedy areas of the Genesee River and Lake Ontario.
10. Walleye (_Sander vitreus_): Walleye are highly sought-after game fish prized for their delicious white meat. They prefer deep, clear waters and can be found in the lower Genesee River and Lake Ontario.
These fish species contribute to the diverse aquatic ecosystem of the Genesee River and provide recreational opportunities for anglers and nature enthusiasts.
