Where to Catch Salmon in New York: A Complete Guide for 2024

As a seasoned angler and outdoor writer with over a decade of experience exploring New York’s waterways, I’m often asked: where to catch salmon in New York? It’s a fantastic question, because New York offers surprisingly diverse salmon fishing opportunities, from the Great Lakes tributaries to inland lakes like Lake Champlain. This guide will break down the best locations, the New York salmon season, fish stocking New York programs, and everything you need to know for a successful and ethical fishing trip. We’ll cover everything from the Salmon River Estuary to understanding the NY DEC stocking schedule 2023 (and looking ahead to 2024).

Understanding New York Salmon Fishing

New York’s salmon fishery isn’t a naturally occurring one. Atlantic and Chinook (King) salmon were introduced in the mid-20th century, and the fishery relies heavily on annual stocking programs managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NY DEC). This means understanding the NY DEC stocking schedule 2022 and 2023 (and anticipating 2024) is crucial for planning your trip. The goal of these programs is to provide recreational fishing opportunities, but also to support the ecosystem. You can find detailed stocking reports on the NY DEC website.

Salmon Species in New York

You’ll primarily encounter two salmon species in New York:

• Chinook (King) Salmon: The largest of the Pacific salmon, known for their fighting spirit and size. They are heavily stocked in Lake Ontario and its tributaries, as well as Lake Champlain.
• Atlantic Salmon: A more challenging catch, Atlantic salmon are stocked in Lake Ontario tributaries and some inland lakes. Their numbers are generally lower than Chinook.

New York Salmon Season Dates

The salmon season in New York varies depending on the specific waterway. Generally, the season runs from August 1st to December 31st in many locations, but it’s vital to check the specific regulations for the water body you plan to fish. The NY DEC Fishing Guide is your definitive source for this information. Pay close attention to any special regulations, such as size limits and gear restrictions.

Top Locations for Salmon Fishing in New York

Let’s dive into some of the best spots to target salmon across the state. I’ve broken it down by region to help you plan your adventure.

Lake Champlain Salmon Fishing

Salmon in Lake Champlain are a major draw for anglers. The lake supports a healthy Chinook and Atlantic salmon population thanks to consistent stocking efforts. The best areas to fish include:

• The Salmon River Estuary NY: This area, where the Salmon River flows into Lake Champlain, is a hotspot, particularly during the fall run.
• Deep Water near Port Henry and Crown Point: Trolling deep water structures can be very productive.
• Tributaries like the Ausable River: These rivers receive stocking and offer opportunities for bank fishing and wading.

Lake Champlain offers both open-water trolling and tributary fishing. Consider using downriggers or planer boards for trolling, and spoons, spinners, or egg patterns for tributary fishing. Remember to check the Lake Champlain specific regulations, as they can differ from statewide rules.

The Salmon River (Lake Ontario Tributary)

The Salmon River is arguably the most famous salmon fishing destination in New York. This river receives massive stockings of Chinook salmon, making it a consistent producer. The lower sections of the river, near the lake, are particularly popular. Expect crowds, especially during peak season. I recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons (early August or late November/early December) for a less crowded experience.

Other Lake Ontario Tributaries

Don’t overlook other Lake Ontario tributaries! The Oswego River, the Genesee River, and the Sodus Creek all receive significant salmon stockings and offer excellent fishing opportunities. These rivers often provide a more secluded experience than the Salmon River.

Saranac River Fishing

The Saranac River fishing scene is gaining popularity, particularly for Atlantic salmon. While not as prolific as Lake Ontario tributaries, the Saranac offers a unique and scenic fishing experience. Focus on areas near dams and waterfalls, where salmon tend to congregate. Fly fishing is a popular method on the Saranac.

Tips for Successful Salmon Fishing in New York

Here are some tips to increase your chances of landing a salmon:

1. Match the Hatch: Pay attention to what the salmon are feeding on. Spoons and spinners that mimic alewives (a primary food source) are often effective.
2. Use Bright Lures: Salmon are attracted to bright colors, especially in murky water.
3. Fish Deep: Salmon often hold in deeper pools and channels.
4. Be Patient: Salmon fishing can require patience. Don’t give up after a few casts.
5. Check the Water Levels: Water levels can significantly impact salmon behavior. Higher water levels often encourage salmon to move upstream.

Responsible Fishing Practices & Leave No Trace

As anglers, we have a responsibility to protect New York’s fisheries. Always practice responsible fishing practices, including:

• Following all regulations: Size limits, bag limits, and gear restrictions are in place for a reason.
• Practicing catch and release: Consider releasing salmon, especially larger females, to help maintain the population.
• Properly disposing of fishing line and trash: Never leave trash behind. Recycle fishing line whenever possible. (Leave No Trace principles are essential).
• Respecting the environment: Avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife.

Understanding Fish Stocking Programs

The fish stocking New York programs are vital to maintaining the salmon fishery. The NY DEC uses hatcheries to raise salmon and then releases them into various waterways. The timing and location of these stockings are carefully planned to maximize survival and recreational opportunities. The NY DEC stocking schedule 2023 (and future schedules) are published online and provide valuable information for anglers. Understanding these schedules can help you target areas that have recently been stocked.

Where to Find Stocking Information

You can find detailed stocking information on the NY DEC website: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/3060.html. This information includes the species stocked, the number of fish, and the location of the stocking site.

Resources for Planning Your Trip

Here are some additional resources to help you plan your salmon fishing trip in New York:

• NY DEC Fishing Guide: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing/regulations/
• REI Expert Advice on Salmon Fishing: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/salmon-fishing.html
• Local Tackle Shops: Local tackle shops are a great source of information on current fishing conditions and hot spots.

I hope this guide helps you plan a successful and enjoyable salmon fishing trip in New York! Remember to check the latest regulations, practice responsible fishing, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that New York has to offer. For more information on planning your overall New York outdoor adventure, check out my article on Essential Gear for New York Hiking or Choosing the Right New York Campground.