Salmon River

Salmon River

NY

River

About Salmon River

The Salmon River in Upstate New York is a renowned 17-mile river flowing from the Lighthouse Hill Reservoir to Lake Ontario, celebrated for its exceptional sportfishing. It boasts robust populations of Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and brown trout, famously holding the Great Lakes record for Chinook salmon and the world record for Coho salmon. While specific hatch charts are not detailed here, the river's ecosystem supports diverse aquatic insect life crucial for these game fish. The 16-mile main stem below Lighthouse Hill Dam, flowing through Altmar and Pulaski, offers accessible fishing with numerous public access points and boat launches, including wheelchair-accessible features at Port Ontario. Anglers will also find opportunities in the heavily forested upper reaches known for their pristine water quality.

Access

Easy Access

Seasons

FallSpringWinter

Water

Large River

Fish Species

Chinook salmon

Coho salmon

Steelhead

Brown Trout

Smallmouth Bass

Fishing Styles

Deep poolsStreamer

undefined USGS Water Conditions

Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.

Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System

Methods

Wade Friendly

Float Friendly

Land Ownership

State Wildlife Area

Quick Actions

Location

Trip Planning

Best fishing typically occurs during fall and spring. Check water conditions before heading out.

See what insects are emerging on Salmon River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.