New York’s Premier Salmon Runs: When and Where to Fish
New York offers some of the most exciting salmon fishing experiences in the Great Lakes region, with opportunities to catch salmon throughout the year. This guide will walk you through the best times and places to fish for salmon in New York, along with essential information on fishing licenses and regulations.
What is Salmon Fishing in New York?
Salmon fishing in New York is a popular recreational activity that attracts anglers from across the country. The state’s waters are home to several species of salmon, including Chinook (King) salmon and Coho salmon. These species are stocked in Lake Ontario and its tributaries, providing a rich fishing experience for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Conservation Efforts
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) plays a crucial role in managing salmon fisheries. The DEC stocks salmon in Lake Ontario and its tributaries to enhance angling opportunities and promote natural reproduction. For more information on conservation efforts and fishing regulations, visit the New York State DEC website.
Best Times to Fish for Salmon in New York
The best time to fish for salmon in New York depends on whether you prefer boat fishing or shore and river fishing.
Boat Fishing
Boat fishing for salmon starts in April, gets better into June, peaks in July and August, and tapers off once most of the mature salmon are in the rivers in October. During the summer months, salmon are often found in deeper waters, requiring the use of trolling gear and downriggers to reach optimal depths.
Shore and River Fishing
Shore and river fishing for salmon typically starts in late summer and peaks during the fall runs. The first substantial rains in September trigger large salmon migrations into rivers like the Salmon River and the Niagara River. This period, which extends into November, offers some of the best shore and river fishing opportunities.
Best Places to Fish for Salmon in New York
New York has numerous excellent locations for salmon fishing, both in Lake Ontario and its tributaries.
Popular Salmon Fishing Spots
- Salmon River: Known for its abundant Chinook and Coho salmon, the Salmon River is a hotspot for fall fishing.
- Lower Niagara River: Offers great opportunities for both boat and shore fishing.
- Oswego River: Another popular spot for catching salmon during their fall migration.
- Genesee River: Located in western New York, this river is ideal for both shoreline and boat fishing.
- Lake Ontario: The lake itself provides excellent boat fishing opportunities throughout the summer months.
For more detailed information on fishing spots and techniques, visit TeenFish’s New York Fishing page.
Fishing Techniques for Salmon in New York
Anglers in New York use various techniques to catch salmon, depending on the location and time of year.
Spin Fishing
Spin fishing is popular for casting lures or drifting baits down rivers. It’s effective for both Chinook and Coho salmon.
Float Fishing
This method involves drifting a bait under a float with the river’s current. It’s particularly effective in deeper sections of rivers.
Lure Fishing
Casting lures such as spinners, spoons, and crankbaits is a great way to attract salmon at river mouths and upstream areas.
Fishing Licenses in New York
To fish for salmon in New York, you need a valid fishing license. Licenses are available for both residents and non-residents.
Types of Fishing Licenses
- Resident Licenses: Available as annual, 7-day, or 1-day permits. Residents must have lived in New York for at least 30 days before applying.
- Non-Resident Licenses: Also available as annual, 7-day, or 1-day permits.
How to Obtain a Fishing License
Licenses can be purchased online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website, by phone, or at authorized vendors. For more details on license fees and options, visit eRegulations.
License Fees
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Annual | $25 | $50 |
| 7-Day | $12 | $28 |
| 1-Day | $5 | $10 |
Conservation Biology and Stock Management
New York’s salmon fisheries are managed through a combination of stocking programs and regulatory measures. The DEC works to maintain healthy fish populations by controlling the number of fish caught and ensuring that enough salmon reach their spawning grounds.
Stock Management Models
The DEC uses Great Lakes and Tributaries Special Regulations to manage Coho and Chinook salmon populations. These regulations include specific catch limits and size restrictions to ensure the sustainability of salmon stocks.
Enforcement Protocols
Enforcement of fishing regulations is crucial for maintaining healthy fish populations. The DEC patrols waters regularly to ensure compliance with regulations, including catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures.
Penalty Tiers
Violations of fishing regulations can result in fines and penalties. It’s essential for anglers to familiarize themselves with current regulations to avoid legal issues.
Conclusion
New York offers a unique and exciting salmon fishing experience, with opportunities available throughout the year. By understanding the best times, places, and techniques for fishing, along with the necessary regulations and licenses, anglers can make the most of their experience in New York’s premier salmon runs.
