You won't be wading the Niagara. Shore fishing requires a good pair of hunting boots. The rocks and shore are usually flat enough to move around but like any snow and ice covered area you need to be careful. The Niagara is very dangerous and drops off very quick. It has some crazy whirlpool boils as well as a strong flowing currents. Some actually flow or swirl upstream in certain areas. Don't take any risk if you fall in this time of year your in serious trouble. Just use common sense! The fish move all around the river so don't move too much sooner or later they will be in your area.
My biggest tip to novice anglers is casting upriver, try not to cast too far out or too close to shore. There is a sweet spot at about halfway. Your line or bait should be tapping bottom by the time it's about in front of you on the drift. If your not barely tapping bottom your not in the strike zone. Adjust your weight so you are barely ticking that bottom. Be ready for a lot of snags until you get that feel . The fish grab it with a few light double taps so set your hook when your suspicious. Once hooked be ready for the most powerful fighting Trout you'll experience just about anywhere. Whether Lake Trout ,or Steelhead in the Niagara, these fish are extremely powerful with the currents and the wide deep water. This is what true Steelheading is about , fighting a true sport fish from shore on his conditions! Don't be disgusted if you loose most that's just Niagara's way, it nothing like fishing in the tribs ! These fish are full of power and have the whole river to burn out that drag. (and they will)
Baits - Egg sacs , spoons , Vibrix Spinners, jigs , minnows (live or salted) and whatever else you catch Trout on. They will all work.
Tips - if the river is pea green your in trouble low visibility, emerald green ,grab your gear!
Line - I start with 8lb. and go from there up or down.
Penn reels - 4400 SS series
Places to stay - Hope these numbers are still the same ............These are basic rooms mainly for fishermen close to the river. We stayed at the first two many a trip. There are other hotels near but are way more expensive.
Portage Hotel, Lewiston NY.- 716-754-8295 (not bad)
Riverside Motel, Lewiston NY - 716-754-4101 (smaller rooms)one room had 3 single beds
Youngstown Motel,Youngtown NY- 716-745-9906 (never stayed here )
Dinning in Lewiston - Tin Pan Alley, or JJ's Cabin outside of Lewiston. There was a breakfast diner in town also. Grocery store in town also. Not sure about a license, no bait shops in Lewiston, try a Wal-Mart on your way.
Fishing - Art Park area , Devils Hole area....ck out satellite maps. There are parking lots.
Good luck, it's a challenge and it's an awesome place to fish, one good day and you'll be addicted !