Delaware River in New York

Trip Overview

The trip took almost 5 hours. It started off at Hales Eddy - a state launch for canoes and kayaks.

The water was calm at the beginning 1/3rd of the trip. Later was moving well, so trip went pretty fast. You could have gone down in a tube or inflatable boat the water was moving so much.

We fished for trout, and large spinners were killers. Very beautiful scenery. We came across occasional Drift boats. Be wary of the end of the trip(landing)you can park a second vehicle at the Hancock police station. The landing had very fast moving water so I put ashore before it and pulled boat across a short swampy area. My brother actually tipped over here since the front was a V shape and he thought the water was shallow and lost about $100 in fishing gear. He went completely underwater. He saved both kayak and paddle thanks to straps. also he lost a anchor earlier as not to sink his kayak during the trip. He anchored in rushing water to fish the area and water began to cover kayak so he cut the line instead of being swamped.

I used a old Kevlar Whitewater kayak from the late 60s and worked out great as it was made for white water with a almost flat bottom. I even drifted backwards a few times down moderate moving water while fishing with no problem. Camped and trout was on the dinner menu that night.

Great trip. It was just days before trout season was to end.
Water levels depend on the rain, so be aware of tranquil, moderate or faster moving water. Though it is always a decent amount of slow steady moving water it should be fine for even a beginner.

Accommodations:

on the way up "visit Roscoe" - the fishing store sells homemade fudge and next door Diner has good prices. The town of Liberty also has fast food, cheap gas and shopping. The town of Hancock also has basic shopping, lodging, gun shop and foods.

Fees:

None; except fishing if you're fishing too.

Directions:

From I-84 westbound take exit 4W; up route 17 (which will be future I-86).

10 minutes north of Hancock, NY on the left is Hales Eddy. At bridge on right side is the state launch and free parking. Remember: drop off a vehicle at lower pickup area.

In town of Hancock go down rt 191 to Hancock police station on right before bridge to PA.

Resources:

Google maps: search Hancock NY, and follow the stream route so you know it.