The creek next to my house used to be one of the best smelt creeks on Cayuga. I havent seen a one in 8 years.
your best bet on Cayuga would be T falls or salmon creek. When??? your just going to have to go to find out. The window is very short. Usually though mid april to mid may used to be good.
If you really want to get smelt take the trip to Niagara, Lewiston area, mid to end of april. If you hit it right, you will get a good pail full.
RR