Fishing For Salmon In New York

Guide to fishing for Atlantic and coho salmon in NY.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Salmon fishing in New York is an exhilarating and highly sought-after angling experience. The state is renowned for its populations of several salmon species, including Chinook salmon, coho salmon, Atlantic salmon, and the occasional pink salmon. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about salmon fishing and identify popular salmon waters in the state. These majestic fish attract anglers from around the world, as they offer thrilling fights and the chance to reel in trophy-sized catches.

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Atlantic Salmon

Known as the “king of fish”, Atlantic salmon live in both fresh and saltwater, which means they are anadromous. They are renowned for their impressive athleticism, and delectable taste. Native to the North Atlantic Ocean, these fish undertake extraordinary journeys from their natal rivers to distant feeding grounds in the open ocean and back again to spawn. In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes has grown in popularity. These are populations of Atlantic salmon that are confined to freshwater environments, like Lake Michigan, are unable to access the sea. Landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes exhibit similar behaviors to their sea-run counterparts, including feeding frenzies and impressive displays of strength when hooked. Anglers most often target landlocked salmon by trolling open water. The pursuit of landlocked Atlantic salmon also comes with a responsibility. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of these populations. Anglers must follow local regulations, and support habitat restoration initiatives to safeguard the future of this cherished species.

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Coho Salmon

Another species of salmon found in New York is the coho salmon. These coho's can are often more available to be caught during the fall when they migrate closer to the shoreline. These acrobatic fish put up a fierce fight and are highly prized by anglers. Trolling with spoons, plugs, or flies is a popular method for targeting coho salmon.

Coho Salmon are smaller in size compared to other salmon but still provide a thrilling fight when hooked. Coho salmon, also called silver salmon, are another prized species targeted by anglers in New York. These fish are known for their aggressive nature and aerial displays when hooked. Coho salmon offer thrilling battles, often leaping out of the water and making blistering runs. They can be caught by trolling or casting near shore areas during their migratory periods. Use small spinners, or bait on a bobber setup. Good bait options include wax worms, minnows, shrimp, and nightcrawlers.

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One of the most prized salmon species in New York is the Chinook salmon, also known as the king salmon. These powerful fish can grow to impressive sizes, reaching weights of over 30 pounds. Lake Ontario and its tributaries, such as the Salmon River, are renowned for their world-class Chinook salmon fisheries. Anglers can target these fish using a variety of techniques, including trolling with downriggers, casting spoons or plugs, or drift fishing with bait or flies.

Coho salmon, also known as silver salmon, are another highly sought-after species in New York. They are known for their acrobatic leaps and aggressive strikes, making them a favorite among anglers. Coho salmon can be found in Lake Ontario and its tributaries, as well as some of the Finger Lakes. Anglers commonly target them using techniques such as trolling with flashers and flies, casting spoons or crankbaits, or drift fishing with bait.

Atlantic salmon, though less abundant than Chinook and coho salmon, offer a unique and challenging fishing experience in New York. The Salmon River is a popular destination for targeting these prized fish, particularly during the fall when they return from the sea to spawn. Atlantic salmon can be caught using a variety of methods, including swinging flies, drift fishing with bait or artificial lures, or casting spoons and spinners.

While less common, pink salmon can occasionally be found in New York waters during their odd-year spawning runs. These smaller-sized salmon provide exciting angling opportunities for those lucky enough to encounter them. Pink salmon can be targeted using techniques such as casting spoons or spinners, or drift fishing with bait.

Salmon fishing in New York offers a thrilling adventure for anglers, with the chance to reel in impressive fish and create lasting memories. Whether fishing on the open waters of Lake Ontario, exploring its tributaries, or targeting salmon in the scenic Finger Lakes, the state provides a diverse range of opportunities for anglers to pursue their passion for salmon fishing.

Major lakes with healthy populations of salmon include Cayuga Lake, Keuka Lake, Lake Champlain, Lake George, Otsego Lake, Piseco Lake, Seneca Lake, Schroon Lake and Skaneateles Lake.

Click the images and links above for species details.

New York State Record Salmon

The state record Atlantic salmon was caught from Lake Ontario.

The state record chinook salmon came from the Salmon River.

The state record coho salmon was caught in Lake Ontario.

The record kokanee salmon was taken out of Twin Lakes

The state record pink salmon was caught from Lake Erie.

New York Salmon Fishing

About The Pacific Salmon Family

Pacific Salmon are born in and remain in freshwater streams for the early years of life. The number varies by species. Afterward they migrate to the Pacific Ocean waters where they bulk up and prepare for their once in a lifetime spawning run up the freshwater stream where they were born. They will instinctively return to their birthplace, spawn and die. They are found in the streams which empty into the ocean, and adjoining ocean waters.

The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies. For more details check here for articles about fly fishing.

Salmon Organizations

Atlantic Salmon Federation

Atlantic Salmon Trust

Atlantic Salmon Museum

Pacific Salmon Commission

Pacific Salmon Foundation

Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.