The History of Landlocked Atlantic Salmon
The Atlantic salmon has long been a part of the history of North America, particularly in the northeastern regions of the United States. These fish were a vital food source for the indigenous populations and later, the colonists who arrived in the 1600s. The salmon ascended rivers and streams in their vast migrations, making their way from the deep, cold Atlantic waters to spawn in freshwater rivers. The abundance of these fish in the rivers and streams of New England and the greater northeastern U.S. provided a reliable, nutrient-rich food source that sustained communities for centuries.
However, as the human population grew and industrialization took hold, this once-thriving fishery began to face severe challenges. Deforestation, industrial pollution, and the construction of dams blocked the natural migratory paths of the Atlantic salmon, decimating their populations. Habitat destruction was a huge contributing factor to the decline of the wild Atlantic salmon runs. This decline was exacerbated by overfishing, with large-scale commercial fishing operations targeting the fish, further depleting their numbers.
By the late 1800s, natural runs of ocean-going Atlantic salmon in many rivers in the northeastern U.S. were no longer a regular sight. In New York, and in many other parts of the country, Atlantic salmon had effectively vanished from their historical ranges. Though efforts to restore these runs through conservation and stocking programs have had limited success, the once-thriving populations of Atlantic salmon in the wild are a thing of the past, at least for now.
Despite the decline in ocean-going Atlantic salmon populations, the legacy of this species lives on in the form of the landlocked Atlantic salmon. These fish have adapted to life in freshwater and can still be found in several lakes and rivers across the northeastern U.S. Although catching a true, ocean-dwelling Atlantic salmon is something that hasn’t happened in New York in my lifetime, there is still hope that future conservation efforts may one day restore these majestic fish to their natural migratory routes. For now, though, we continue to enjoy the sport and the beauty of the landlocked variety, a reminder of the Atlantic salmon’s historic legacy.
Landlocked Salmon Fisheries
While the once-abundant ocean-bound Atlantic salmon may no longer swim through the waters of New York, a vibrant population of landlocked Atlantic salmon still thrives in the Adirondack region. These landlocked salmon are a fascinating and prized species, offering anglers a glimpse into the past while providing an exciting opportunity for modern-day fishing enthusiasts.
The Adirondack region, with its network of pristine lakes, rivers, and streams, is home to a number of healthy landlocked Atlantic salmon populations. Though the numbers are not as high as those seen in the larger tributaries of Lake Ontario, the landlocked salmon in the Adirondacks are still plentiful enough to offer a rewarding fishing experience. The relatively undisturbed environment of the Adirondacks, with its cold, clear waters, makes it an ideal habitat for these hardy fish. Unlike the more well-known fisheries in the Finger Lakes or along the shores of Lake Ontario, the streams and rivers in the Adirondacks that support landlocked Atlantic salmon tend to be smaller, more intimate waterways, creating a unique fishing experience that’s less crowded and more serene.
In the Adirondacks, the landlocked Atlantic salmon run begins in mid-September, with the action continuing through October and into early November. Peak fishing typically takes place in October, when the salmon are most active, preparing for their annual spawning journey. The fish are often found in tributaries and streams that flow into Lake Champlain, which acts as the primary reservoir for these landlocked populations. These rivers, such as the Boquet River, Ausable River, and others, offer some of the best chances for anglers looking to land a landlocked Atlantic salmon in the Adirondacks.
Catching landlocked Atlantic salmon requires careful timing and knowledge of the right conditions. These fish are particularly sensitive to water temperature and flow rates, and they tend to run when the water conditions are ideal for their spawning cycles. They can be found in deeper pools and riffles in the rivers and streams, often around rocky structures or under overhanging trees, where they hold and wait for the right moment to spawn. As the weather cools and the days shorten, the salmon become more active, making the fall months an exciting time for those targeting them.
Lake Champlain Tributaries
Lake Champlain, a vital body of water nestled between New York and Vermont, plays a key role in the conservation and fishing opportunities for landlocked Atlantic salmon. These resilient fish, descendants of Atlantic salmon from Sebago Lake in Maine, thrive in the lake’s cold, clear waters, and their continued presence in the region is largely due to dedicated restoration and management efforts dating back to the 1960s. Thanks to these efforts, including effective sea lamprey control programs, landlocked Atlantic salmon populations in Lake Champlain have been able to survive and reproduce in higher numbers, offering anglers one of New York State’s premier fishing experiences.
Each year, these landlocked salmon run the tributary streams of Lake Champlain in two distinct migrations: the spring run and the fall spawning run. In spring, the salmon chase schools of smelt—an essential food source—upstream in search of spawning grounds, leading to some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. The fall run is particularly significant, as the salmon return to the streams to spawn, with anglers flocking to these rivers in pursuit of these magnificent fish.
The Big Three Tributaries
Three main tributaries to Lake Champlain— the Ausable, Bouquet, and Saranac Rivers—receive the most substantial runs of landlocked Atlantic salmon. These rivers are the heartbeat of the salmon fishing season in the Adirondacks, drawing both seasoned anglers and newcomers eager to experience the thrill of catching these prized fish. Each river has unique characteristics, and though they share the same goal— to offer excellent salmon fishing opportunities— the logistics of fishing these waters can vary from stream to stream.
Ausable River Fishing
The Ausable River, one of the most renowned fishing locations in the Adirondacks, is particularly well-suited for anglers seeking a productive landlocked Atlantic salmon experience. The river’s system stretches for miles, but the best fishing for these fish is generally found within the first two miles upstream from the mouth, near the Route 9 bridge. This flatwater section is easily accessible by boat, and its deeper pools hold the fish that are active in the fall and spring runs.
The best access point for anglers is the Ausable Point Campsite, where fishermen can launch their small boats to explore the river’s deeper pools, where salmon often congregate. Wading isn’t practical in this stretch of the river, as much of the land along the Ausable is privately owned, so fishing from a boat or kayak is the primary method. Anglers typically fish streamers or spoons to attract the landlocked salmon as they pass through the river on their annual migration.
For those interested in a detailed map of fishing locations on the lower Ausable River, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) provides resources to help you find the best spots. You can access these maps and additional information about the Ausable River’s fishing areas through the DEC website: Ausable River Fishing Map.
While the Ausable River offers some of the most rewarding fishing opportunities for landlocked Atlantic salmon, patience and knowledge of the river’s conditions are key. The river’s flow can vary depending on rainfall and seasonal changes, so timing your trip to coincide with favorable water levels and salmon activity is crucial to a successful outing. The best fishing typically occurs during the fall spawning run, although spring offers a more active feeding period when salmon are chasing smelt.
The Restoration Success: Managing for the Future
The restoration of landlocked Atlantic salmon in Lake Champlain and its tributaries has been a long and challenging process, but the results have been worth the effort. The key to the successful restoration of these fish has been ongoing control of the sea lamprey population in Lake Champlain. Sea lampreys are parasitic creatures that attach themselves to fish like the landlocked Atlantic salmon, causing significant harm to these fish populations. Through the development of sea lamprey control programs, the survival rates of adult salmon have increased dramatically, allowing for the continued growth of landlocked salmon populations.
As these fish continue to thrive in Lake Champlain, it’s essential to keep monitoring the health of the watershed and maintain ongoing conservation efforts. The landlocked Atlantic salmon populations are sensitive to changes in water quality, habitat loss, and human interference, which means that continuous management of these resources is crucial for their long-term survival. In addition, preserving public access to these tributaries ensures that future generations of anglers can continue to enjoy the thrill of fishing for these iconic fish.
Bouquet River Fishing
The Bouquet River, located in the northern Adirondacks, is a fantastic spot for anglers seeking landlocked Atlantic salmon. Most of the fishing occurs downstream of the Willsboro Dam and the fishway on Route 22, where the river creates a mix of deep pools and pocket water perfect for salmon. The area just below the dam is often productive, especially in the fall when salmon begin their spawning runs.
To access this stretch of the Bouquet River, anglers can take Exit 33 on Interstate 87 (Northway), which brings them close to the dam and its surrounding waters. Alternatively, anglers can launch from the cartop boat launch on School Street in Willsboro, which provides access to approximately two miles of flatwater leading down to the river’s mouth. While much of the fishing action occurs below the dam, don’t overlook the pools above it. In the fall, salmon frequently use the fishway to bypass the dam and ascend into the river, making the upper pools a viable fishing destination.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) offers a detailed map of the best fishing areas on the Bouquet River, helping anglers pinpoint the prime spots. You can find it here.
Saranac River
The Saranac River, particularly the stretch running through the City of Plattsburgh, is another excellent location for landlocked Atlantic salmon fishing. The best fishing occurs in the three miles downstream from the Imperial Dam, a region where salmon populations are known to thrive. This section of the river offers a variety of fishing experiences, from areas where anglers can access the streambank to stretches that are best fished from a boat, especially when targeting the deeper pools.
This area is particularly accessible, as part of the river is managed by the city, and there are streambank fishing areas that are publicly accessible. Whether you’re fishing from the bank or in a boat, the Saranac River provides a solid chance of catching landlocked salmon.
For more details and a map of fishing locations on the Saranac River, check out the New York State DEC resources here.
Landlocked Salmon Fishing Regulations
As with all fishing, adhering to regulations is essential when fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in the Lake Champlain tributaries. These fish are protected by specific rules due to their unique status in the region, so it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the regulations for the area you’re fishing in.
For example, there are certain sections of the Ausable and Saranac Rivers where fishing from boats is prohibited. These areas are clearly marked in the Lake Champlain regulations published by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Always ensure you’re aware of these guidelines before embarking on your fishing trip.
You can access these regulations and rules for Lake Champlain tributary waters here.
By taking the time to read and understand these regulations, you’re helping to preserve the health of the fish populations and ensuring that landlocked Atlantic salmon remain a viable target for future generations of anglers. Additionally, following the rules guarantees a fair and sustainable fishing experience for all.
Stream Flow: A Key Factor in Landlocked Salmon Fishing
When fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in the Lake Champlain tributaries, understanding stream flow conditions is just as important as knowing the regulations. Flow conditions can significantly impact the fish’s behavior and, consequently, your chances of success.
The Ausable and Bouquet Rivers are both known for their rapid rise in flow following rain events. This means that after a rainfall, these rivers can become swollen, which may either hinder or enhance fishing conditions depending on the timing. Typically, higher flows will make fishing more difficult in certain areas, as the fish may move to deeper, less accessible spots. However, after the initial increase in flow, the fish often settle into the calmer, more stable water, making it easier to target them.
On the other hand, the Saranac River is somewhat more moderate in its reaction to rainfall. It doesn’t rise as quickly as the Ausable or Bouquet, and its flow tends to stabilize more gradually after rain. This makes the Saranac River a good option for anglers seeking consistency in stream conditions.
Fishing Techniques
Restoration Efforts Continue
Original Article By Rob Streeter
About the Author
Rob Streeter enjoys fly fishing for many species, especially trout and landlocked salmon in the Lake Ontario tributaries. He is the outdoor columnist for the Albany Times Union and freelances for several publications. He is a member of the NYS Outdoor Writers’ Association and the Outdoor Writers’ Association of America.
This article has been revised by Daniel O’Neill, an experienced angler and writer, to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. As a result, it may no longer reflect the original author’s views or intentions.
