Salmon Fishing In NY – Identification, Habitat, Tips, Techniques
Salmon, known for their strength, resilience, and elusive nature, are a key species in New York State freshwater fishing. From the waters of Lake Ontario to the streams that flow through the state’s landscapes, salmon are highly prized by anglers and enthusiasts.
This guide explores salmon fishing in New York, covering identification, habitat preferences, and fishing techniques. We examine species such as Chinook, Coho, pink, and Atlantic salmon, each offering its own challenge and reward.
Join us as we delve into salmon fishing, from their spawning rituals to the beauty of New York’s lakes and rivers. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, fishing for salmon in these waters provides a unique experience.
Get ready to discover the world of freshwater salmon fishing in New York State, where natural beauty and the excitement of the chase come together for an unforgettable angling adventure.
Fish species of NY – click to read more.
How To Identify Salmon
Chinook salmon, known as “king salmon,” hold a prominent position among the Pacific Salmon species thriving in the Great Lakes, particularly in New York. Originally introduced to bolster declining fish populations, they have become integral to the freshwater salmon fishing scene in the region.
Flourishing in the ecosystem nurtured by the alewife population, Chinook salmon exhibit impressive sizes, with typical weights hovering around 18 lbs, while record catches have been known to reach an astounding 47 lbs. 13 oz. Characterized by dark backs, silver sides, white bellies, and dark mouths with black gums, they boast spots on both lobes, with mature individuals showcasing brownish-green hues and distinct peanut or ‘W’ spots.
Their life cycle spans four years, during which they undergo remarkable growth, transforming from finger-sized juveniles into 30+ pound adults. These distinct features and life cycle traits make Chinook salmon a recognizable and sought-after species among anglers and enthusiasts alike in New York’s waters.
Coho salmon, another notable member of the Pacific Salmon family thriving in New York’s waters, presents distinct characteristics that set it apart. Unlike its larger cousin, the Chinook salmon, Coho salmon tend to be smaller in size but no less impressive. Maturing at the age of 2, they typically average between 8-10 pounds in weight.
Their striking appearance includes greenish-blue backs, complemented by silver sides and white bellies, with fewer but larger spots compared to Chinook salmon. As Coho salmon reach maturity, their heads take on a green hue, while their flanks transition to a rich maroon color. These features, along with their streamlined bodies and unique coloration, make Coho salmon a prized catch for anglers navigating the waters of New York.
Pink salmon, while less frequently encountered in New York’s waters, still represent a notable presence among the Pacific Salmon species. Originating from the Western US, pink salmon have found their way into Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, though their numbers are not as abundant as other salmon varieties.
Characterized by their smaller size, pink salmon typically weigh between 3.5 to 5 pounds on average, measuring around 20 to 25 inches in length. Their distinct features include large black spots adorning their backs and heavy oval-shaped black blotches on their upper and lower tail lobes.
Additionally, they exhibit white mouths with black gum lines and tongues, along with very small scales. Unlike some other salmon species, pink salmon lack silver pigment on their tails, further setting them apart in appearance. Despite being less frequently caught, pink salmon contribute to the diverse ecosystem of New York’s lakes, offering anglers a unique fishing experience when encountered.
Atlantic salmon, a species renowned for its versatility and adaptability, holds a distinct position among the various salmon species found in New York’s waters. Particularly, the landlocked variety of Atlantic salmon represents a unique and prized catch for anglers.
Landlocked Atlantic salmon are generally smaller than their oceanic counterparts, ranging from 15 to 22 inches in length, with some reaching 26 inches or more. They can weigh up to 5 pounds, providing a rewarding challenge for anglers.
Landlocked Atlantic salmon have dark backs and light sides, with color variations depending on the season and life stage. Young salmon are grayish with black spots and white bellies, while adults have a silvery sheen that fades during spawning. Their streamlined head shape helps them navigate rivers and streams, where they often reside and spawn.
They have black spots on their tails and fins, distinguishing them from other species. Despite their smaller size, landlocked Atlantic salmon are adaptable and resilient, making them a sought-after catch in New York’s freshwater bodies.
Their unique traits and role in the ecosystem contribute to the rich aquatic life in New York’s lakes and rivers, attracting both anglers and conservationists.
Habitat
New York State boasts a rich diversity of salmon habitats, encompassing both expansive freshwater lakes and intricate river systems. Salmon thrive in a variety of environments, from the grandeur of the Hudson, Susquehanna, Niagara, Genesee, and Mohawk Rivers to the tranquil embrace of smaller creeks and streams that crisscross the landscape. These waterways offer prime salmon habitat, providing ample opportunities for spawning and sustenance.
Salmon require clean, cold water to thrive. Pacific salmon prefer temperatures between 52 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit during spring and summer, while Atlantic salmon favor slightly warmer waters, typically between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. In lakes, they seek deep pools for spawning, and in rivers, they prefer deeper sections with rocks, logs, and vegetation for cover and protection.
Adequate cover and structure in both lakes and rivers are essential for salmon, helping them navigate their habitats and avoid predators. New York State’s diverse landscapes, including its lakes and rivers, provide important environments for salmon to survive and reproduce.
Natural Food Source
Salmon, whether in freshwater or marine environments, exhibit diverse feeding behaviors throughout their life cycle, reflecting their adaptability to changing environmental conditions and nutritional requirements. In their freshwater stages, salmon rely on a variety of food sources to sustain their growth and energy requirements as they navigate their developmental journey.
Initially, during the early stages of their life cycle, freshwater salmon predominantly feed on zooplankton and insect larvae, which serve as essential sources of nourishment. These microscopic organisms provide the foundational energy needed for the rapid growth and development of young salmon, ensuring their survival in the often challenging freshwater habitats they inhabit.
As freshwater salmon grow, their diet expands to include a variety of prey. They target flying insects like mayflies, dragonflies, caddisflies, and midges that gather near the water’s surface. Salmon use their keen hunting skills to catch and eat these insects.
In adulthood, salmon shift their diet to small fish such as minnows and smelt, which provide the nutrients and protein they need. These baitfish are crucial for maintaining their health and preparing for their migratory journey to the ocean.
By the season
Salmon fishing in New York State offers a dynamic experience from April through November, aligning with the salmon migration from Lake Ontario to their spawning tributaries.
Fall is a peak season for salmon fishing. As temperatures drop and the landscape changes color, salmon migrate upstream through New York’s rivers and streams. This migration increases salmon activity, providing exciting opportunities for anglers.
During fall, the abundance of salmon makes for thrilling fishing. Anglers can cast from riverbanks or use boats to navigate the waters. Cooler temperatures and changing conditions make salmon more responsive to various fishing techniques, including casting spinners and spoons, drifting bait, and trolling.
Best Salmon Fishing Spots In NY
New York State presents anglers with an abundance of prime salmon fishing spots, each offering experiences and challenges. Among these, Lake Ontario stands out as a premier destination, boasting a salmon fishing season that spans from April to October. Renowned as one of the state’s top freshwater salmon fisheries, Lake Ontario beckons anglers with its promising waters and abundant catches.
The Salmon River, nestled in Oswego County, emerges as another hotspot for salmon and steelhead trout fishing enthusiasts. Spanning over 40 miles, this river offers diverse fishing techniques, including drift fishing, trolling, and bobber fishing, ensuring a varied and rewarding angling experience for visitors.
Venturing to the northern reaches of the state unveils the majestic St. Lawrence River, stretching from Lake Ontario to Quebec. During the salmon run, this river becomes a haven for salmon fishing enthusiasts, thanks to its deep, cold waters and numerous access points along its expansive length.
In western New York, the Genesee River emerges as a prominent destination for salmon and brown trout fishing. Extending over 70 miles, this river provides anglers with opportunities for shoreline and boat fishing, promising exciting encounters with prized salmon species.
Lastly, the Hudson River stands as a testament to New York’s rich salmon fishing heritage, offering excellent opportunities for freshwater salmon fishing. With its season spanning from late April to November, anglers can indulge in some of the finest freshwater salmon fishing experiences that the state has to offer.
Best Salmon Fishing Bait, Lures and Flies
When fishing for salmon in New York State, anglers use a range of lures, flies, and live bait. Among the most effective lures and flies are spoons, which attract salmon with their movement. Crankbaits offer a tight, erratic motion that mimics fleeing baitfish. Jigs, often used with live or artificial bait, sink quickly to attract salmon.
Streamers, which work in both freshwater and saltwater, have bright colors and movements that are effective year-round. Nymphs, useful during peak salmon season, mimic aquatic insects and offer versatility in casting distances.
For live bait, roe (salmon eggs) is a popular choice and can be used in various methods like drift fishing, trolling, and bobber fishing. Worms are flexible and work well with different rigs and scenarios. Shrimp is also used because of its natural scent and flavor, making it attractive to salmon.
How To Catch
Mastering a variety of techniques is essential for successful freshwater salmon fishing expeditions. Spin casting emerges as a favored approach, enabling anglers to cast lures further into the water and explore more areas in a single outing. This method proves particularly advantageous when targeting larger fish lurking in deeper waters. To excel in spin casting, investing in a robust fishing rod and a high-quality spinning reel is paramount.
Fly fishing, although demanding, promises immense gratification, requiring precision and finesse to present the fly attractively in areas where salmon are likely to congregate. Opting for a 9′ 9-weight fast-action rod enhances one’s ability to maneuver the fly effectively, increasing the likelihood of enticing strikes from elusive salmon.
Jigging stands as a versatile technique, employing spoons or tubes to simulate natural prey movements and entice salmon. This method shines during peak fishing seasons when larger fish are more active, offering anglers the opportunity to reel in impressive catches with deliberate and controlled movements.
Bottom fishing targets trophy-sized salmon by strategically placing bait or lures near the water’s bottom, necessitating the use of heavier weights and larger hooks for optimal results. This method is favored for its effectiveness in attracting sizable salmon specimens.
Bait fishing, particularly effective during peak seasons, entices a variety of fish species, including salmon, with alluring offerings such as worms or cut-up fish. Selecting the appropriate size and type of hook is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of bait fishing endeavors.
Each fishing technique presents its unique set of challenges and rewards, offering anglers diverse opportunities to conquer the thrilling realm of freshwater salmon fishing while honing their skills and experiencing the beauty of nature’s bounty firsthand.
Spawning Habits of Salmon
Each year, the mesmerizing migration of Chinook and Coho Salmon from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario marks a spectacle of nature, captivating both anglers and observers alike. This annual journey, occurring between mid-March and early April, signifies the beginning of the spawning season for these majestic freshwater salmon.
As the salmon make their way towards Lake Ontario, their behavior becomes notably aggressive, presenting a prime opportunity for fishermen to target these prized species. With their instinctual drive to spawn propelling them forward, the salmon gather in vast numbers, creating an enticing challenge for anglers seeking to test their skills against the strength and agility of these powerful fish.
Following the culmination of the spawning process in late summer, the salmon congregate at the mouths of tributaries scattered across Lake Ontario. Here, they stage themselves, preparing for the next phase of their journey. During this time, anglers experience heightened opportunities to encounter freshwater salmon, particularly near shoreline areas and shallow waters where baitfish gather in abundance.
The onset of the salmon fishing season, which typically commences in early September, marks a time of anticipation and excitement among freshwater enthusiasts. Running through early November, this period offers a window of opportunity for anglers to immerse themselves in the thrill of pursuing Chinook and Coho Salmon in the pristine waters of Lake Ontario.
The peak of the fishing season often coincides with the first two weeks of October, when the waters teem with activity, and the salmon are at their most active. It is during this time that anglers have the greatest chance of landing these magnificent specimens, showcasing the culmination of patience, skill, and determination in the pursuit of freshwater glory.
For freshwater anglers, the salmon fishing season on Lake Ontario represents not only a chance to engage with nature at its most vibrant but also an opportunity to forge lasting memories amidst the tranquil beauty of the Great Lakes region.
Regulations
Salmon fishing in New York State falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), ensuring sustainable practices and the preservation of salmon populations.
Anglers pursuing Atlantic Salmon enjoy a year-round fishing season with the liberty to keep fish measuring above 15 inches, capped at a daily limit of 3 fish.
For those targeting Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Steelhead, the fishing season also extends throughout the year. However, catches must measure a minimum of 12 inches, with a combined daily limit of 3 fish for these species.
New York State’s diverse salmon-rich waters cater to anglers of varying expertise, offering opportunities for fishing from charter boats, shorelines, or fishing kayaks. Chinook salmon, in particular, presents an enticing challenge for anglers seeking thrilling fishing experiences.
With salmon populations on the rise, New York State promises even brighter prospects for salmon fishing enthusiasts. Anglers are advised to review the official fishing regulations provided by the NYS before embarking on their fishing endeavors, ensuring compliance with all rules and regulations governing salmon fishing activities.
