Swan River (New York)
Swan River is one of only a few free-flowing, spring-fed streams on Long Island that have remained in a relatively natural state. Above Swan Lake, this creek provides habitat conditions suitable for natural reproduction by brook trout, and supports one of approximately 6 known wild populations of this species on Long Island. In addition to native fish populations in Swan River, concentrations of sea-run brown trout occur in the tidal segment below Montauk Highway, during their fall spawning period (September–November). The concentrations of salmonids in Swan River support a recreational fishery of county-level significance. However, no formal public access to the area has been developed. No unusual concentrations of any wildlife species are known to occur in the area. A few local marinas and untouched wild life are spread throughout its almost 2 mile run There are residential homes spread throughout the river's edge.
History
 | This section needs additional citations for verification. (June 2021) |
From the 17th century onward, Patchogue was a major maritime center on the south shore. Settled initially by Native Americans, this center was favored by English colonists who traveled from New England to Long Island in the late 17th century, working the bay to harvest shellfish and finfish.
Notable bay families included the Duffys, Flints, Weekses and other families, who purchased property near the creeks in order to dock their boats.
They built shacks which were used as shucking houses, one of which remains on Avery Avenue. Their homes persist as reminders of this rich tradition, primarily in East Patchogue along Swan River Creek on Conklin Avenue.
In the 21st century, not as many baymen still worked the waters of Swan River, Patchogue and the Great South Bay.
