Salmon fishing is a popular angling activity across many parts of the United States. From Alaska’s icy rivers to the Great Lakes and beyond, salmon can be found swimming upstream and congregating in ideal habitats.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the prime salmon fishing locations across the country and outline the top spots to catch these muscular fish on rod and reel.
Salmon Species in the US
There are six main salmon species pursued by anglers in the United States
- Chinook salmon
- Coho salmon
- Sockeye salmon
- Pink salmon
- Chum salmon
- Atlantic salmon
The Pacific salmon varieties are found along the West Coast and in Alaska, while Atlantic salmon is the main species on the East Coast and Great Lakes region.
Understanding the difference between the types of salmon will help pinpoint the ideal spots to target them. Their migration timings, favored habitats, average sizes, and physical appearances vary.
Best Salmon Fishing States
The top salmon fishing states in the US include:
Alaska
Alaska is the salmon fishing capital of not just the United States, but the entire world Its remote rivers, massive lakes, and island-dotted coastline provide ideal habitat for all five Pacific salmon species
From the Kenai River to Bristol Bay and beyond, Alaska offers anglers endless opportunities to hook trophy-sized salmon.
Washington
The Puget Sound area and Columbia River Basin contain excellent salmon runs. Chinook, coho, pink, chum, and sockeye salmon all swim Washington’s waters.
Oregon
Like its northern neighbor, Oregon boasts strong salmon populations in both its coastal rivers and inland waterways. The Willamette River, Nestucca River, Tillamook Bay, Rogue River, and Umpqua River are salmon hotspots.
California
The Sacramento and Klamath Rivers host feisty chinook salmon for anglers to target with bait, lures, and flies. The San Francisco Bay also holds staging salmon.
New York
Lake Ontario and its tributaries, including the famous Salmon River, provide epic salmon fishing. Chinook, coho, and Atlantic salmon run the creeks flowing into Lake Ontario.
Michigan
Lake Michigan offers superb salmon fishing, with huge chinook and coho salmon running its rivers. The Muskegon River and Manistee River are top producers.
Maine
The northern rivers of Maine remain one of the few places anglers can hook the elusive Atlantic salmon. The Penobscot and Rapid Rivers are prime spots.
Best Salmon Fishing Spots
Now let’s drill down into the top salmon fishing destinations across the United States.
Kenai River (Alaska)
- Known for trophy-sized chinook salmon exceeding 50 pounds
- Also holds good numbers of sockeye and coho salmon
- Prime fishing from May through July
Bristol Bay (Alaska)
- World’s largest sockeye salmon runs (millions of fish)
- Also has big chinook and coho salmon
- Remote area accessed mainly by plane
Lake Ontario (New York)
- Lake itself and tributaries hold chinook, coho, and Atlantic salmon
- Salmon River is a world-famous fishery
- September through October are peak months
Lake Michigan (Michigan)
- Muskegon and Manistee Rivers see huge salmon runs
- Chinook salmon reach 30+ pounds
- Salmon move upriver beginning in late summer
Sacramento River (California)
- Has the largest chinook salmon run in the state
- American and Feather Rivers also have salmon
- Peak season is late summer and fall
Columbia River (Oregon/Washington)
- Has all five Pacific salmon species
- Produces the biggest salmon runs in the Lower 48
- Buoy 10 area sees incredible action
Klamath River (California)
- Second largest salmon river in California
- Fall chinook enter the mouth starting in August
- Remote, scenic river with native salmon
Rogue River (Oregon)
- Spring and fall chinook runs up this famous river
- Also has steelhead and trout
- Salmon fishing peaks in September
Puget Sound (Washington)
- Boats and shore anglers catch all 5 salmon species
- Nisqually, Puyallup, Green, and Samish Rivers hold fish
- September through October are best
Rapid River (Maine)
- One of the top Atlantic salmon rivers in the region
- Restricted to fly fishing only with low limits
- Peak season is May through August
Best Fishing Methods for Salmon
Salmon can be caught using a variety of techniques:
- Casting spoons and spinners in rivers
- Drift fishing with eggs or shrimp baits
- Fly fishing with streamers and wet flies
- Trolling with plugs, spoons, and flashers offshore
- Still fishing with bait or lures in estuaries
Make sure to match your salmon fishing methods and gear to the specific conditions and regulations in the area.
From heavy-duty salmon rods and reels when trolling the Great Lakes to lightweight fly setups on small coastal streams, having the right tackle for the situation will help you hook more of these hard-fighting fish.
Salmon Fishing Seasons Across the US
Since salmon migrate and spawn at different times across their native range, it’s important to plan trips during the peak fishing seasons.
- Alaska – May through September
- Pacific Northwest – March through October
- California – August through November
- Great Lakes – April through October
- New England – April through August
Of course, consult current regulations for exact salmon fishing opening and closing dates in your region. Timing your salmon fishing outings to coincide with the runs will greatly increase your chances of success.
licensing Requirements for Salmon Fishing
Most states require anglers 16 years and older to have a general fishing license to pursue salmon. Some jurisdictions may also have stamps or endorsements specifically for salmon. Be sure to review the exact licensing rules for the state and waters you’ll be fishing.
Salmon fishing in the United States offers action, adventure, and great eating. With so many excellent destinations to cast for these iconic fish, make plans to visit one of the top salmon fisheries this season. Just be sure to obtain the proper licenses and adhere to local regulations. Tight lines!
Great Lakes Region
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be near the ocean to catch salmon! The Great Lakes region offers exceptional salmon fishing, particularly in Michigan and Wisconsin.
- Lake Michigan: Both the lake and its tributaries are prime spots for salmon fishing. The state of Michigan stocks the lake with Chinook and Coho Salmon. Salmon fishing on Lake Michigan in the summer is unmatched.
- Lake Superior: Known for its clear, cold waters, Lake Superior supports healthy populations of Chinook, Coho, and Pink Salmon. The lake’s rugged coastline is ideal for a scenic camping trip and setting up your truck camper along the shoreline. We recommend Little Girls Point near Ironwood.
- Milwaukee River: Flowing into Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee River is a hotspot for Chinook and Coho Salmon. The fall runs are especially popular with local anglers.
The Northeast might not be the first region that comes to mind for salmon fishing, but it offers some unique and historic spots, particularly in Maine and New York.
- Penobscot River: In Maine, the Penobscot River is known for its Atlantic Salmon. While the population has diminished, efforts to restore the salmon runs have made it a significant spot for anglers.
- Salmon River: It’s right in the name! Located in New York, the Salmon River is famous for its Chinook and Coho Salmon runs. The river’s fall season attracts thousands of anglers seeking to catch these magnificent fish.
Top 5 Best Salmon Fishing States
FAQ
Where is the best place to catch salmon in the US?
- Alaska. This one shouldn’t surprise anyone! …
- Pacific Northwest. The Pacific Northwest, particularly Washington and Oregon, is renowned for its salmon fishing. …
- Great Lakes Region. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be near the ocean to catch salmon! …
- Northeast.
In which states can you catch salmon?
- Bristol Bay, Alaska.
- Kenai River, Alaska.
- Puget Sound, Wash.
- Columbia River, Oregon/Washington.
- Salmon River, N.Y.
- Penobscot River, Maine.
- Lake Michigan, Mich./ Wisc./ Ill./ Ind.
What US state has the best salmon?
Washington. Rivers and lakes everywhere and probably the best state for salmon besides Alaska. Odd years have millions of pinks, chinook, coho, sockeye, and chum.
Where is wild salmon caught in the US?
Almost all the sockeye salmon harvested in the United States comes from Alaska fisheries. Sockeye salmon are also harvested off the West Coast, mainly Washington, with a small amount harvested in Oregon. Sockeye salmon remain the preferred species for canning due to the rich orange-red color of their flesh.
Where can I fish for salmon in the United States?
Without a doubt, Alaska is the salmon fishing capital of the USA (and of the entire world, for that matter). But there are many other US states that also offer great salmon fishing opportunities, some of which are much closer to home for most people. Here are the top 12 destinations for salmon fishing in the United States:
Where is the best salmon fishing on the Pacific Coast?
The best salmon fishing on the Pacific coast is found in Alaska. And while you can catch plenty of salmon all over Alaska, the four top destinations are Kenai River, Katmai, Bristol Bay, and Seward. The amazing quality of these destinations for salmon fishing explains why we included 4 locations in Alaska in our list above.
Where can you catch salmon in New York City?
Both the open-water fishery and local rivers, such as the Nushagak River and Kvichak River, provide anglers with fantastic salmon fishing. In the rivers, you may also hook into rainbow trout, arctic char, grayling, and Dolly Varden. Salmon Run Times: 3. Kvichak River
Which river is best for salmon fishing?
For those seeking a dynamic and engaging fishing experience, the Sacramento River delivers with its thriving salmon runs and vibrant atmosphere. Idaho’s Salmon River, known as “The River of No Return,” offers thrilling salmon fishing experiences. Its remote location and rugged beauty draw adventurous anglers.
How do you catch salmon in Alaska?
Salmon anglers use methods such as fly fishing and drift fishing since the salmon enter the rivers, but ocean fishing is done by trolling or mooching. Heavy tackle is required for the bigger salmon, while pink salmon can be caught on lighter gear. For more details on methods, runs, and areas to fish, check out Alaska Salmon Fishing.
Is Alaska a good place for salmon fishing?
Alaska’s Yukon River is an iconic destination for salmon fishing, particularly for its impressive Chinook runs. Its vast expanse and remote location appeal to those seeking solitude and adventure. The river’s unspoiled ecosystem supports a rich diversity of fish species, making it a rewarding spot for anglers.