Enjoy drift boat fishing the Salmon River Pulaski NY w/drift boat fishing
guide for steelhead salmon on the Salmon River NY.Drift boat guide fishing
reports
To quote a Drift Boat Guide that I know, our trip yesterday was O U T S
T A N D I N G, in every sense of the word. Although I live just an
hour away from the Salmon River NY, I have only fished the Salmon River
in Pulaski NY for four years. I feel very comfortable with my Salmon
"catching" expertise, but the elusive Steelhead is a different story.
I am still at the low end of the learning curve when it comes to chromers.
Yesterday we made some major progress on the learning curve, correcting some
things I was doing wrong, and fine tuned some other points. PLUS we hit
ten Steelhead and landed two. I never hook "jumpers"----I think you
must have planted the two leapers that we had. When "out of staters"
come to the Salmon River NY, they have to pack a whole season into two or
three days---well, yesterday, I packed a whole season of experiences, thrills
of victory and the agony of losing a 16# Steelhead leaper at the net in one
very enjoyable, eight hour Guide Drift Boat trip down the Salmon River Pulaski
NY.
I appreciate your patience, guidance, and sense of humor.
Thank you for an outstanding day.
Dave, tired and sore, in Oneida.
Randy,
What a great day, just when I thought I knew a little something about
steelhead fishing I had to fish with you. You really are a class
act. I really appreciate you sharing your expertise and patience
as well as some of your "honey" holes with me. I would encourage
any steelhead fisherman, novice or expert, to fish with a guide even if
it's just once, and if they can get Drift Boat Guide Randy Jones they're
in for a great day. There is so much to learn about this sport and
you can trim years off the "learning curve" by fishing with a real pro
such as yourself. Thanks again for the fun and truly a learning fishing
experience. And thanks for not mentioning that "hog" that snuck through
the hole in your net.
Randy,
Wanted to thank you again
for a wonderful day on the river. I am very excited that on Daimon's
first Steelhead Drift Boat Guide trip he was able to tie into some nice
Steelhead. They say that dogs look like their owners, well, sometimes fish
look like their catchers too. That picture is too funny. Thanks
for putting us on that special Steelhead. Also, thanks for putting up with
our fish tales and not giving us any time-outs. You are a class act.
When you called out exactly where a Steelhead would be lying in the hole,
yelled, right there, and I felt a bump, I still can not believe
that a Steelhead took the fly right as you called for it to happen.
You are spending way too much time on the Salmon River Randy. Do you
feel the jealousy coming out. I will continue to recommend you to
anyone who wants to learn the river or just be put on some fish. Look
forward to seeing you again soon.
(This was Daimon's first time fishing the Salmon River Pulaski NY.
So we started him off slow and small on the above first Steelhead of approx.
6 lb. range. The next Steelhead he landed had a deformed mouth and resembled,
a Disney Fish. (he-he) Above, Daimon does
a nice imitation of the fish's expression.
If Daimon can catch these Steelhead, then there is even hope for
the rest of you! (he-he)
(The last time Chris was out with me was last Feb. They played with
something like 20 Steelhead that day. We fished 2 different spots (hit
Steelhead in both) in the upper Salmon River while we waited for the slush
to clear down river. Then hammered them again once the slush had cleared
in the DSR (every hole) It was stupid with fish!)
(Remember?)
Have a Happy Holiday and Happy Fishing! Chris
Hi Randy;
Well you did it again, only this time a little
better. When Skip and I fished with you for Steelhead on the Salmon River
on Friday December 13th we didn't beat our record of February the year
before..Although the day was a good one the knowledge you taught us allowed
us to catch and land many Steelhead on Saturday ..We went 2 for six on
Steelhead fishing on our own..Skip was the first to hook up and he landed
a nice female Steelie.It gave him quite the fight, and if I must say I
did a great job of netting it .We left the first spot you showed us and
went to another one and it was my turn. I hooked up three times with one
nice female coming to the net. She was almost as big as the male I caught
the day before with you..Once again you came through for us. We now
have the confidence to find the fish and catch them on our own.
(Skip shows off a nice bright 10 lb. (weighed) female Steelhead.)
Thanks, John and Skip
Randy,
I just wanted to thank you for the Drift Boat trip that Gert and myself
had with you yesterday. Speaking for myself, I learned a lot; how
to rig, what to use, where to find'em, good drifting techniques.
Although I didn't get one to the Drift Boat, I did enjoy the hell out
of the 4 that I was fortunate enough to have fought. Awesome Randy.
Me and Gert were grinning from ear to ear on the ride home. To make everything
fair though, Gert really should send you some flies and a couple hundred
yards of tippet material to make up for all the squirrel hunting he was
insistent on doing.
(Gert was all smiles with the above Steelhead. Cant say I blame him!)
Have a good holiday Randy,
Tim Boothe
Randy,
Every time I go fishing, the optimist in me says "This might be the
day." Athletes pray for days like this, hoping they play in "the
zone." I think fishermen do too. Surely, this is what keeps many of us
thrashing the water with a piece of string. I can count on one hand the
number of days when this has happened. Two of them have been with you. The
first was two years ago today, Oct. 8, when I hooked 40 or 50 fish, including
a 35 lb male king that now sits above my fireplace as an reminder of that
one remarkable day of fishing. The other was last Friday. Not only did I
land a pair of nice Kings, I also caught my first Cohos, a beautiful male
brown and three fall-run steelhead -- my first grand slam on the Salmon
River. All told, I had maybe 20 hookups, while my buddy Myles had almost
as many and landed cohos, a brown and several steelhead. It wasn't as if
this was a great day on the river. I saw many long faces and shaking heads
as other anglers came up empty, lost lead and flies to the river bottom and
called it quits by midday. The credit for my experience is all yours. I know
there are many fishermen who can work the Salmon River and catch plenty of
fish, especially when a run is on. I can do it on my own sometimes. But putting
it all together when the fishing is slow as you did is a testimony to your
skill, knowledge and hard work. Looking forward to my next trip with you
and the chance to yell "Fish On"!
Regards,
Jim
Randy,
I did want to take the chance again not only to thank you for the
fun, the Salmon, the knowledge and your company, but also the incredible
patience and extra effort you went to for us. Dad repeatedly said
that it was one of the best Fishing trips he's ever had and I know that
your contributions all made that possible. We've always enjoyed
our Fishing trips together into the woods, but every once and a while
a Fishing trip stands out as a classic that gets relived over the phone
and holiday dinners until the fish have grown to the size of whales, the
weather colder than the Klondike at Christmas, and the BS deeper than a
mushroom farm. You've given us another one that will be fondly relived
for many years to come. It becomes even more special as it I begin to become
more aware that times like that can't be taken for granted. That is something
for which I will always be in your debt.
Thanks again.
John
Superb Fishing
Reports for the Salmon River in Pulaski NY. Salmon Steelhead Drift Boat
Spin Fly Fishing Guide @
" Fishing Reports"
Randy
Just wanted to say thanks for a great day of fishing last week in
your secret fishing hole. Rick and I figured that together we hooked up
about 60 to 70 times. The water where you fish is perfect for landing fish
that are fair hooked and it is out of the way enough which discourages the
crowds.
Also we liked the way you positioned us in the hole so we didn't have to wade through a long line of fisherman to fight the fish down stream. We also appreciate your encouraging not only an ethical approach to fishing but a considerate approach to other fisherman around us. I think it helped other non guided fisherman to learn the right way to fish as well as stream etiquette.
Great job Randy. I look forward to our Drift Boat trip in November. Seems
like the Steelhead are in the river in greater numbers now versus previous
years. Should be a good Fishing Steelhead November.
Stan
Stan lands a 30 lb. King Salmon that's
going on the wall. Congrats!
Randy,
It has been two days since my day on the river with you, and I am
having a difficult time getting focused. I have fished in many parts of
the country and have caught many fish, not one experience however was
as exciting as my time on the Salmon River NY with you. My first outing
for King Salmon on the river with you proved to be the most electrifying
day of fishing I have had in over 40 years. Hooking up over 15 times and
landing 6 King Salmon is something I will never forget. Your guidance and
instruction will remain locked in my mind for use on future Fishing trips
to this magnificent fishery. The day before our trip I fished the Salmon
River by myself and although I hooked up 4 times I failed to land a Salmon.
There is no doubt that had I fished the Salmon River the day after our Guide
trip, I would have not only hooked more fish, I certainly would have landed
some. I guess the only way I will be able to get focused again is to book
another Guide day on the Salmon River with you. Please let me know if you
have any open days available during the Steelhead run. Thanks for the Fishing
experience of a lifetime.
Larry
Randy,
Thanks for the great photo of the HOG you and I landed. This year
was particularly enjoyable for me. Even though there were relatively few
fish caught up and down the river by others, due to low water and fish
volumes, it was amazing how effective our group was. I did not see anyone
even come close to the amount of fish we handled and, in many cases, landed.
As a bonus, I certainly learned a lot about handling a fly rod in just a
couple of days, something relatively new for me. Thanks for your patience
and consistent sharing of techniques. Bottom line; best guide, best location,
best dates, best gear,---big fish! I am thinking we need to rebook out at
least until I will be too old to move--the only excuse not to be out on
the river with " The Man". See you next year if not before on the Salmon
River Pulaski NY.
Clint Woods
Clint lands a beauty King Salmon of approx.
30 lb's. Congrats! (Fish Released into Cooler) Steelie too!
Randy:
Just wanted to let you know that we all had a good time Fishing
and being Guided by you. We learned alot too. I re-rigged my reel that
night with a Cortland shooting line and hooked a lot of fish on Thursday.
I hooked a bunch of kings (over 10) and I landed two steelhead, one of
which was 30 inches and perfectly silver! Thanks for all your help!
Steve Saliga
Hi Randy,
That Steelhead Drift Boat trip was probably the best Steelhead Guide
fishing experience I have ever had. And I fish alot! My wife and I thank
you so much for your terrific sense of humor, the knowledge you pass on,
and for the personal attention you gave each of us as we pursue our quest
for these fish of a lifetime...
Thanks for the memories,
Rick Jensen
Rick with the first of many. Biggest
Steelhead of the day was a bright 15 lb.'er (All fish
released)
Ron lands his biggest striper ever, first time sight fishing for them.
(39 incher) Boy, what a cow. Now, THATS a Cape Cod keep-A. Congrats!
Dan's 38 incher gave him some big tail slaps on the surface in 2 feet
of water and ran about 150 feet into that orange stingy stuff before coming
to hand. Another nice one in 2 feet of water while sight fishing.
Congrats!
Randy,
Thanking you for a wonderful day on South Beach, fishing with my brother
Tom and friend Mark Wesner. Though it may not have been my most productive
day for a bent rod, it was a wonderful, fun, and relaxing experience.
You have a gift for being for being able to instruct veteran fly fishermen
in a most professional, courteous manner without berating or belittling
anyone. All 3 of us came from that day being better casters than we were
previously. The other 2 spoke of your teaching ability also. You even seemed
to apologize for your rising, excited voice upon seeing fish from the ladder.
I want to be with someone who gets excited like that! Fish turn me on too.
I also appreciated the courteous manner with which you treated other fishermen
and guides. Needless to say, I've spoken with many others since our June
date with considerable positive advertising on your behalf. You know where
to send my commission, right? Please feel free to use my name as a
reference. Needless to say my respiratory and cardiac systems were
stimulated when watching those fish close on my fly!
Keep those e-mails coming.
Tight lines, Art Howe
Norm with a 39 inch'a. At Norms age, I said he better let me bring
it in, but he would have none of that. What a honk'a
"It was one of the greatest fishing days in my life. Randy Jones is
everything I could ask for in a guide".
John Davison from England.
HELLO RANDY
I just wanted to take a minute to thank you
for an incredible day of fishing.I have fished with you twice and I have
hooked a total of 19 steelhead, I know people who have been fishing that
Salmon River in Pulaski NY for five years and havent hooked that many Steelhead.
As I was driving home I was laughing, the Salmon River was at 1200, the
weather was bad, and the Steelhead fishing had been slow for five days,
still I had the best day of my life. As a registered maine guide and a
person who has fished all over the world ,I have never met anyone who works
as hard to get fish as you do. Anyone who is thinking about fishing the
"Salmon River" should book a Guide trip with you. If the dates aren't available
they should change there plans to get an open date, Its the closest you
can get to a sure thing in Steelhead fishing.
Thanks again I'll see you next March hope the
river is high and the weather is bad.
Capt. William Griffin
Bill lands a 20 lb. Buck. Steelhead of a lifetime released.
November 2 is a day I will remember for the rest
of my life . It started out crisp and clear in the morning as we started
our Drift Boat Trip down the river . My companions were Drift Boat Guide
Randy Jones of Yankee Angler , and my best friend Jim Ciantar .
We stopped at a couple of holes to fish but with
little success , and I mean little . The second place we stopped Jim and
I teamed up to take six fish ranging from 3-6 inches long . We all got
a pretty good chuckle out of that . However it gave Randy an opportunity
to work on our techniques . The proper cast and drift is crucial when fishing
the Salmon River . Randy is one of the finest teachers I have come across
. He has an uncommon blend of humor , patience , and knowledge which is
rare . He explained his tactics and why he uses them . Steelhead location
and why they are there . Also seasonal changes regarding Steelhead location
, all invaluable fishing information
The third spot we hit was awesome . Which
by the way , Randy was rushing to because he knew some Steelhead were there
. Within a couple of minutes after dropping the Drift Boat anchor I hooked
up with a real burner Steelhead, but lost him . The Fishing had been slow
up to that point but Jim and I managed to hook up five more Steelhead
in the next couple of hours . We worked the hole from both sides in and
out of the Drift Boat . All the while Fishing Guide Randy was coaching
us on how to properly fish the hole and where the Steelhead lay up . Before
we left that hole I managed to hook and land the below 17.5 pound beautiful
male steelie . (Who will spend the rest of his days on my wall . ) It has
taken me nine years and a lot of time and money to get that fish . My first
good steelhead . Truly a fish of a lifetime . Jim also hooked a nice silver
bullet Steelhead about 12 pounds but lost him at the net .
I have been fishing for a long time , and for many
different species , from marlin to pan fish . In those years I have had
some really great days . This certainly was one of the best . The combination
of beautiful weather , great people , cooperative fish on a scenic river
, well that is pretty hard to beat .
For those of you just getting started in salmon
and steelhead fishing , do yourself a favor . Hire a Guide . It does not
have to take nine years like it took me . I highly recommend Randy he is
a true professional and a real good guy .
Ron Scheer
, Vernon C.T.
Randy,
We would like to take a moment to thank you again for what we can
only describe as "The best Drift Boat Guide Steelhead fishing trip I have
ever taken!" The knowledge you passed along will last a lifetime and forever
change the way I fish the Salmon River.
Jim
Randy,
Just a brief note to say thanks again for sharing
an incredible day on the old Pucker Brush on March 15th. I realized afterward
that I got caught up with the catching and didn't ask a lot of intended
questions. Fortunately you continued, throughout the day, to provide a
wealth of detail and information. Not only did I learn how to be
a better steelhead fisherman but also learned a few things about dedication,
organization and service. Looking forward to fishing with you in November.
Bill Gemmell
Bill with just a few of the fish we landed.
Bill's best day ever. Congrats! ( All fish Released )
Randy: Bill and I had a great time with you useing the
Drift Boat in the Douglaston Salmon River. Your knowledge of the
Salmon River NY, presentations, and ability to put us on Steelhead was
spectacular. It was a pleasure to spend time with you and we both
commented on your level of enthusiasm which never waned from the beginning
of the day to the end and the Drift Boat row back (well at least part of
the way back ha! ha!) to the lighthouse.
After fishing with me for a day, they went on their own into the same
area we fished and hit a couple of lakers, brown and 2 steelhead. Congrats!
Again both Rik and I thank you for another great trip. I continue to marvel
at both your knowledge of the Salmon River and the patience exercised
in providing instructions on the techniques necessary to successfully catch
fish; with the bonus of enabling us to fish with the best Orvis equipment.
There may have been a lot of fisherman in the Douglaston Run, but I seriously
doubt anyone one was as successful as Rik and I in hooking-up on as many
salmon. (And lucky Rik catches his first Steelhead of 20lbs on his first
cast of the day.) When I recall us fishing a pool in the afternoon and hooking
18 to 20 salmon in a three hour period while an array of other fisherman
fishing the same pool never got a strike, is a tribute to your superior abilities
as a guide. I consider myself fortunate to be able to fish with you as
many times as I have in such a short period of time (I believe it was my
seventh trip in one and one half years.) There will hopefully be many more
trips and all will be you if you continue to be available. Those three successful
spring steelhead trips with you has me now hooked. As I have repeatedly
stated to my many fishing friends, you can either go fishing or you can
charter Drift Boat Guide Randy for "catching".
Dick Koelling
I just wanted to take the time to say THANK YOU for a most excellent trip
yesterday. Having fished the Lake Ontario tributaries for nearly 20 years
and guiding for 10 of those, yesterday was by far the best fishing I have
ever experienced. You really put us on the fish, IT WAS AMAZING. In two
decades of fishing my biggest coho was 18 pounds. I caught FOUR coho yesterday
that beat it (18.5lb, 19lb, 20lb, and 22lb). Our Norwegian guest Geir Sivertzen
had the time of his life and will remember this day forever with a big
smile on his face. I caught and released more coho yesterday than I have
in the last 4 years combined! What else can I say . . . a grand slam (35lb
king, 17lb steelie, 7lb brown, 22lb coho), all three of us hooked up simultaneously
at least 4 times, having to net fish two at a time, Bob, Geir and myself
landing 50 out of 85 fish AND all on fly rods!!! Yes, our arms are SORE!!
We simply cannot thank you enough for sharing your expertise and helping
us to have a most memorable day. You are truly one of the standouts on our
Mustad Guide Prostaff.
Sincerely,
Jeff Pierce
National Sales Coordinator - O. Mustad & Son (U.S.A.) Inc.
I have had a chance to fish with guides from all over North America and
you are one of the very best. I really appreciated the knowledge you shared
and the personal attention given to Geir, Jeff and myself. Mustad is fortunate
to have you on our guide pro staff and I look forward to a long fishing
relationship.
Regards, Bob Funk
National Sales Manager-O. Mustad & Son (USA) Inc.
Dear Whitakers,
On Sept.18, my brother- in- Law Rob Martinsen and I engaged Randy
Jones’ Drift Boat Guide services to fish for Salmon on the Salmon River
NY. This was the second time this year we had been guided by Randy, the
first time was for steelhead. Both outings proved very productive in regards
to both fish hooked and fishing knowledge gained. We have lost count of
how many steelhead and salmon hooked when out with Randy, while we can
count on one hand how many we have caught on our own. Most importantly
were the skills we were taught and the insights into the Salmon River and
its fish.
Randy was both professional and knowledgeable. He intimately understood
the topography of the river and the fish’s behavior within it, and was open
in sharing his knowledge with us. He tailored his help to our individual
skill levels. He was prompt and dedicated to teaching us as much as we could
absorb. His endurance was remarkable. We began at five in the morning and
would still have been fishing at dark if we ourselves hadn’t called it a
day from exhaustion. We enjoyed your accommodations and plan on staying with
you next spring.
Best regards,
William Au
Randy, I just wanted to thank you for one of the
greatest Steelhead Fishing days of my life. You are a true master of your
craft. See you on the cape.
Bill Cody
Randy, I really appreciate your time and efforts, as I'm sure many others do. You define what I think all fishermen should be: thoughtful, courteous, and respectful not to mention friendly! Great Fun! Great Photos! Great Story! Great Memories!! Now that's fishin'!!!!
Hey Randy,
I just wanted to drop you a note of thanks for a great guided steelhead
fishing experience on the Salmon River NY last Friday.(2/23 Report)
What an amazing treat it was to see my father land his first Steelhead
in almost 19 years! He introduced me to the Salmon River as a teenager,
and I've been hooked ever since. I have to tell you...Dad
is hooked again! He emailed me today to let me know that he's having
a fly rod custom built! Amazing what a little "lightning" on the end of your
line will do, huh? We had a great day...5 for 8, and most of all,
we truly learned some things from you that will only make us more successful
in our searches for Steel! Your professionalism and knowledge of the
river made our entire day. You can count on us to refer you to all
of our friends, and who knows, maybe we'll even come out to the Cape for
a day of Striper fishing!
Thanks again,
Bill
Bill with his father Jim
Posted by TTDave on November 02, 1999
Report: 10/28, Had only one hook up by myself. 10/29, water still
at 335cfs, fished with Drift Boat Steelhead Guide Randy Jones, had 7 hookups
before noon, landed two steelhead.
Hi Randy,
By the way, both Warren and I had a fantastic
time and look forward to Steelhead fishing with you the next time. Your
attentiveness, knowledge, instructional skills, and good humor really
make fishing with you a blast. And we even caught some Steelhead!
Thanks again...
Andy and Warren
Rudolf Vey NJ October 4, 1999
Dear Randy, It was again a great pleasure to fish with you as a guide
on the Salmon River. We were really; really happy with the number and
size of the fish we caught. I still think about that second day when Achim
caught a 16 lbs. Steelhead in the morning and an 18 lbs. Steelhead in
the afternoon. That day I had my first "Salmon River Grand Slam", a King
Salmon, a Coho Salmon, a Steelhead and a Brown Trout. What a great day
fishing that was. We were both so happy. We must say, we felt special.
We hooked and caught fish by the dozens, whereas other anglers fishing
the same spot stayed either fishless or hooked only the odd fish. Do to
your Guide knowledge of the river and the fish.
Altogether we hooked over 160 fish in three days (I still remember
my number for Saturday, Sunday and Monday: 32 – 14 – 54, that’s exact 100
fish hooked). And we still do laugh about it. We had a ball of a time
fishing, and needless to say, you had a great part in it. Also, the accommodation
at "Whitakers" was great as well. The new owners, the Adamski family,
are great people – we really loved how we were treated, not as customers
- no, we felt more as friends.
Thanks again,
1 King was kept for dinner.Over 40 fish were hooked.
Rudy Vey
A couple of friends and I spent three frustrating days in SEPTEMBER fishing
the Salmon River NY. The sun was hot and the water was low and clear.
All of us came up empty. I figured I needed a second fishing trip to get
the scent of skunk off. This was the one you dream about. On Friday, I
quickly lost count of the hookups, but it was way into double digits. Among
those I landed was a 35lb male king. I'd give guide Randy Jones even more
credit here, but I'm afraid that if too many people find out how good this
guy is I won't be able to book him again. While the stretch of river I fished
wasn't that crowded, others were a zoo.
Another note of appreciation for yesterday's outing
for steelhead and your teaching Rick, and providing me reinforcements,
regarding the techniques for hooking, playing, and landing steelhead. I
was as pleased as Rick that he caught and released his first steelhead.
Fortunately he did it while he was 30 years old and not 55. But as many
of your clients and readers have previously reported, I also made many unsuccessful
fishing trips (not even a hook-up) to the Salmon River NY before making a
1998 trip with you and catching several steelhead in "Puckerbrush Creek".
My only disappointment is that your reputation for catching fish and teaching
successful steelhead/salmon techniques has made you a very popular Drift
Boat Guide which makes it difficult to book with you unless you plan far
ahead. Thanks, Dick and Rick
Rick and dad Dick
both land a couple Steelhead beauties. Congrats ! ( All Fish Released )
There ARE so many entry-level fly fishermen who are constantly trying to
improve their skills in this sport. Clearly the more time on the Salmon River
with some one like you can help to reduce the experimentation and personal
favorites or approaches that many times doesn’t relate to catching these
magnificent fish.
Hi Randy,
I Just wanted to drop you a note to say thanks for an awesome day on the
River 3/21. Alex and I appreciated you sharing your knowledge of the
Salmon River NY but more importantly helping us hook into some Steelhead.
As soon as the pictures come back alex will have his lone Steelhead plastered
on the walls in his office and in his living room. In addition I would
like to commend you on your professionalism. You do an excellent
job promoting the sport. I look forward to scheduling another Drift
Boat Guide trip with you next spring.Thanks, Mark
Mark lands a couple small Steelhead.
(he-he)
Mark and brother Alex celebrate his first landed steelhead ever!
(3 years) Congrats to you both!
Just a note to say thanks for a great day of fishing. We got home
I did a bit of research. That 35lb king I caught would have been a world
record on 8lb test on a fly rod. The record is 31lb.
Randy,
Thank you for a truly great outing. Basically, I knew nothing
about the Salmon River - in previous trips would usually end up somewhere
in Altmar, following other fishermen around like a sheep. Now, I
feel confident that I can approach the Salmon River with a strategy and
a technique that will at least afford me the opportunity to identify and
access "fishy" water and present my fly to fish for as long and as naturally
as possible. Additionally, we studied numerous slots and runs that
I never would've even considered stumbling around on my own. As I
learned, it really is as precise as fitting a key into a lock.
I cannot stress enough how invaluable this guide experience was, from
the standpoint of a guy that lives a couple hours away, and simply cannot
devote the time necessary to develop on my own a comfort level with such
a complex fishery. I hope you will be able to find some room for
me in March...I promise it will take me less than half a day to figure
out that "straight out in front of you" means straight out in front of me.
By the way, I think I pulled my hamstring sprinting after that last
Steelhead.
Thanks again. Andy Romanow
Andy works the lil Black hole down to
Josh and is 3 for 6 on Steelhead for the day. All dime bright freshies!
Thank you for your courtesy, sportsmanship, wit and wisdom, and your willingness to help others learning about fishing in all its forms.
Posted by Jay on November 21, 1999
I fish the Salmon River three to four times a week and often observe
you with your clients. I believe you’re a first class guide and fisherman.
Too bad there aren't more of you! All I can say is if you'd watch this
man do his stuff on the river you'd be a better fisherman. Thanks Randy!
Hi Randy,
Thanks for a memorable Drift Boat Guide trip
and a favorable write-up on your website! We would like to do a Monomoy
striper trip with you, a fall 2001 salmon trip, and a spring 2002 steelhead
trip. Just let us know when we can get out again with you...
Tight Lines, Larry
Larry and Don
1/6 Randy,
Just to let you know that Thomas & I had a great time fishing
with you yesterday. You have a particularly good way of explaining
things to kids that help them understand. However, the most
valuable thing to me was that he (and I) got to fish with someone who understands
and respects the resource and takes the time to explain the fish,
it's life cycle, conservation and on stream courtesy and sportsmanship.
It's a lesson that I hope sticks long after the memory of that 15 pound
steelie has faded.
Look forward to fishing with you again.
Mike
Thanks mike, its always fun to try to help hook something other
than fish. I think we succeeded!
Tom was all smiles after fighting this
big Steelhead. This was his first time ever fishing for Steelhead.
The second Steelhead even though smaller, still gave him a great fight and
both Steelhead will last in his memory for a life time. Congrats Tom! I
have a feeling it will be a long ride home for his father Mike! ( Both Steelhead
released )
Salmon River Drift Boat Guide Randy Jones gets glowing remarks from everyone. I've had the privilege of corresponding with him via email on a range of different issues related to the Salmon River NY fishery from conservation to fishing techniques and he is an absolute first-rate guy. You'd be hard pressed to find anyone who has as much knowledge about the Salmon River as him and even more hard pressed to find someone who is as eager and willing to share it. If I were to use a guide again, he'd be it. Most folks who have had any contact with him would say the same, unless of course they were competing with him for business. So beware, there are guides out there who, for lack of a better word, suck. I know from experience. If you don't know the Salmon River well and you want a quality experience, call Drift Boat Guide Randy Jones. If you do know it well and want to learn even more, call Randy Jones. He's a guide with integrity that always puts his clients first but will never do it at the sake of the fish or the fishery.
. Re: Seeking advice on a Salmon River guide?
Posted by Jim Richenderfer on Sunday,
October 31, 1999
Recommend Drift Boat Steelhead Guide Randy Jones for first time visit
to Salmon River NY. Was out with him on Oct. 28th. Hard working, knowledgeable,
friendly. He spends much time on the water, will get you into salmon and
steelhead.
Randy, I wanted to let ya know, I was very gun-shy about hiring a fishing
guide .But after a lot of thought, and the necessity of learning( I emphasize
LEARNING ) one of the best steelhead waters in the state of NY. I made
no mistake hiring you as my Guide!. You showed me one of the best Drift
Boat Fly Fishing trips I've ever had. (I think he knows every hole -pebble-rock
in the entire Salmon River) Your personality and teaching skills and willingness
to share it ! Far surpasses anything I expected! I want to thank you for
the best fishing trip I've ever taken. Learned more with you in 1 day ,than
I could have in a Year!! Looking forward to the next trip (still have the
lower half to learn, along with my angling skills) Your Professionalism
and teaching skills are AWESOME!! Thanks Dave
Posted by Glenn D. on Monday, November 1,
1999
I second the information from Jim. I was out with Randy on Oct.16.
He gives 110% to make your Steelhead Fishing trip successful.
Posted by Ken Link on Monday, November 1,
1999
I second what the other people have said - go w/ Drift Boat Spin Fly
Fishing Guide Randy Jones. I have used him the last two years and find him
to be the best Salmon River Guide by far. HOWEVER, I do tie better flies
than him, according to the Steelhead and Cohos we caught together last week
(ha ha Randy!!). You will learn a lot from Randy and catch fish as well. Enjoy!
New York Fishing Message Board
Posted by Ross on November 09, 1999
Steelhead fished last Thursday with Drift Boat Guide Randy Jones on
the Salmon River NY. We had hook-ups on Steelhead all day long. This was
very exciting Fly Fishing for these beasts, many took me deep into my backing.
We landed 3 steelhead with one being in the 17 pound range. Randy is a hard-working
guide who can put you onto fish. I highly recommend him if you are new
to steelhead fishing. He loves to teach and share his vast knowledge of
the Salmon River.
:
That's great Ross! I'm glad to hear that you had a successful Drift
Boat Fly Fishig Guide Trip with Randy. We are proud to have Randy on our
Prostaff here at Mustad. He is truly a great guide, teacher and person.
You just gotta love those steelie's. Fishing with him back in September
I landed 2 coho's that would have broken the current IGFA fly rod tippet
records for 8lb and 12lb. He really put us into fish and taught our guest
a great deal.
Jeff
Wanted: Salmon River Fishing Guide for Steelhead Fishing Sunday, 05-Dec-1999
I am looking for a Salmon River fishing guide that specializes in
steelhead fly-fishing. Can anyone provide a recommendation? I would like
to try booking a trip during the Dec/Jan timeframe. Thanks.
I suggest you try Randy Jones I spent a day with him earlier this year. HE got me into fish on day when few anglers were catching. He will also share his knowledge and teach how to do it on your own. To top it off he is nice guy too.
I've never used a guide, but from what I hear Randy Jones is the man. There was a lot of talk about him and everyone recommended him. He seems to be interested in helping everyone catch fish legally.
Randy, Thank You for a wonderful Drift
Boat trip on the Salmon River NY. I had a great time Steelhead fishing
with you. If I would have just fished the Salmon Rriver (with the techniques
I know) I would have been skunked!!!! I will say hi to Barry for you. For
those reading this Barry is an owner operator of a long running Orvis Fly
Fishing store in my area. One day in his Fly shop he was talking to some
customers about the Salmon River and mentioned Drift Boat Guide Randy Jones.
He said if you guys go there make sure you book a trip with Randy. I had
already done so, so it made me feel confident on my choice of Salmon River
Guides. I was not disappointed. Randy works harder than all of us combined
to make your trip a pleasant one. His knowledge and personality makes him
the best. Barry was right... Randy Jones is the best guide on the salmon
river....BAR NONE
Thanks Again
Mickey
Wow, thanx much for the great tips Randy!
Randy, you RULE! Thanks so much, I learn something from you every time. Have a great Christmas!
Dear Randy,
I wanted to thank you again for such a great day on Sunday.
Steven and I are convinced that we learned as much about Steelheading and
the Salmon River itself in one day as we would have in 10 years of our own
wading and exploring. Landing 2 out of 8 Steelhead made the day a
grand success! Thanks again, and save me a date in Monomy for the
summer.
All the best and tight lines,
Roger Murphy
Friday, Nov 5 was a wonderful day of learning and fishing on the Salmon
River. I spent the day with Guide Randy Jones. Our goal was to walk and
map the holes and prime fishing spots at the Douglaston Salmon Run in Pulaski
and the lower fly zone in Altmar. That we did and at the same time I was
3 for 8 on steelhead. Randy was very knowledgeable, patient and very informative.
He provided me with four pages of hand drawn maps of every inch of the
DSR. I have spent many, many dollars on this disease called fishing but
I know the money spent on Friday is an investment that will provide a great
return in the future. Thank you Randy!!!!!!!
Dave Smith
Posted by Dave Hromowyk
Truly amazed and no longer frustrated! Fished the Altmar section 10/28
and had two hook-ups with salmon. No steelies for the day. Water at 335cfs
and clear. On 10/29 fished same area only this day I had booked Randy Jones,
a Salmon River Guide, to show me how it's done. Fantastic day! Hook-ups
were numerous enough to enjoy a superb day on the river. They were everywhere
we walked. Randy showed me places where fish were that nobody else was
even fishing. And we are talking steelhead with blue skies and 70 degrees.
You want to LEARN something AND catch fish legally; this guide can do the
job! Anyway, 3 steelhead for the morning (8 - 14 lbs.), and three more
Steelhead hook-ups in the PM changed my whole fishing trip on the Salmon
River NY.
Thanx Randy
Randy,
Thanks an awful lot for the tremendous day on the water. Once
again you provided a memorable experience and some very valuable information.
Although I only landed 4 of the 10 Steelhead hooked, it turned out to be
the kind of Drift Boat Guide trip that most people would truly appreciate.
Wait a minute, did I say TEN Steelhead hooked?! That's more Steelhead
than I'd ever played with in one day before! And these were quality
Steelhead. The Drift Boat trip part was informative as well.
Now I have an idea of what to look for on my next Steelhead Fly Fishing
trip out there, how to fish those waters, and with what equipment.
Anyway, thanks Randy - JOB WELL DONE! Dave
Dave with just a few Steelhead we landed. ( All fish released )
Posted by Glenn D. from PA
Fished the Salmon River for the first time on Oct.16 - Oct.18. Went
out with guide Randy Jones on the 16th. For anyone looking for a knowledgeable
guide to take you out on the river, I highly recommend Randy. He gave
110% to make my first trip a success. He had us into fish right from the
start. Landed two nice Kings and a beautiful Steelie. As the day progressed
we moved to different locations. There were fish moving through the area
all morning. In the afternoon we traveled down river to see other area's
of the river and their productive spots. To end the day we went down to the
DSR. What a beautiful area! The river widens greatly and you really have
to know the bottom structure to find the fish. LOTS of hookups, only two
Kings landed. My first trip to the Salmon was a great experience. I look
forward to returning next year. Thanks, Randy
On 9/13, I fished the Douglaston area with guide Randy Jones (who posts
reports on the Salmon River on this page from time to time). Randy had
a good sense of where to find fish throughout the day, so we were into
fish most of the day, even though they are still not in the river in great
numbers. I landed 4 or 5, with 10 or so others on. On the way back to the
car, we stopped on the steep bank overlooking the Joss Hole. The light was
on the water, and we could see to the bottom of the pool. It was an amazing
sight to see 30 or so giant king salmon in that pool. It looked like a scene
from Sea World. See you on the river,
T.A Mckinney
Posted by Ken Link on November 03, 1999
Outing Date: 10/26 & 10/27
Fishing Quality: spotty
Report: Fished 10/26 w/guide Randy Jones, who as usual helped us figure
out what it took to get some hook-ups (no fresh fish / existing fish very
spooky) by sticking w/naturals and light tippets. Ended up (2 anglers) w/around
a dozen hook-ups with about half landed, better than anyone else we saw
that day. Next day fished w/o Randy but used his tips on patterns and leaders
- had a very hot morning w/surprise fresh fish, all on purple wooly buggers.
Afternoon slowed considerably but did land a monster brown that was very
silver in color - must have been one of those German imports. Wish I were
up there right now!! Strongly recommend Randy Jones - excellent guide/nice
guy who always teaches me something each trip (BUT I tie better flies than
him - ha ha!!).
Your insight to the Salmon River is excellent. Take care and keep up the good work. The area needs more guides like you. You give the area a good name. Thanks and Tightlines.
Once again your importation of Steelhead fishing
knowledge was overwhelming and most worthwhile. My learning curve
has been greatly accelerated due in large part to your expert guide service.
As a testament, I was out the very next day to the same "honey hole" and
was a respectable 1 for 3 on Steelhead which included the attached beauty
which I hooked and landed all by my lonesome (fish released). If
it weren't for the techniques and strategies you taught me from our past
outings, I'm sure it would have been another fruitless day. See you
again in the fall, Tom
Congrats Tom, what a beauty!
Your knowledge and willingness to share it without condition is simply marvelous for everyone, but mostly for the fish. You should be commended for helping make this magnificent fishery what it is. Hopefully, we can educate more and more people so the Salmon and other tribs get the respect they so much deserve.
Feel free to contact my references regarding my presentations and experience:
Orvis-Fishing the Cape, Harwich M.A. (508)-432-1200
Whitakers Sports Shop and Motel (315)-298-6162
Trout Unlimited Chapters:
Finger Lakes TU, NY
Iroquois TU, NY
Chenango Valley TU, NY
Scranton TU, PA
Catskill Mt. TU, NY
Tug Hill TU, NY
Southeast TU, MA
Greater Boston TU, MA
Northeast TU, MA
Croton Watershed TU, NY
Clearwater TU, NY
Mid-Hudson TU, NY
Iron Furnace TU, PA
Stan Cooper TU, PA
Thames Valley TU, CT
Hammonasset TU, CT
Chittenango TU, NY
Also:
Orvis-Manhattan, NY
Orvis-Boston, MA
Green Mt. Fly Tiers Assoc. VT
Rivers Edge Trading Co.(Orvis)
Central NY Fly Fishers, NY
Oysterville Yacht Club, MA
Rochester Sportsman Show, NY (2 ½
day show, paid featured guest speaker and fly casting demo’s.)
Albany Outdoors Show, NY (2 ½
day show, paid featured guest speaker and fly casting demo’s.)
Wilmington Sportsman Show MA. (2 ½
day show, paid featured guest speaker and fly casting demo’s.)
I was also interviewed (along with Lefty Kreh) for an article on 2 handed
fly rods in the surf and flats that appeared in Saltwater Fly Fishing
Magazine. Once again, in the same magazine for my “go to saltwater striper
fly”. Also in Fly Fishing in Saltwater. Additionally, I’ve also been featured
in a few guide profile articles for the Albany, Syracuse, Utica and N.Y.
Times Newspapers. Some of my “How To” articles have also appeared
in the N.Y. Sportsmen, N.Y. Fishing and Hunting, Salmon River Success Magazine’s.
As will as many of the major East Coast Internet Fishing Sites.
Thank you all for your words of encouragement, kind words
and your continued support. Ill continue to do my best in sharing what
I've learned through, experience, experimentation, borrowed ideas and taught
techniques by the well known, Jim Rusher, Bob and Rich Benson, Tom Wilson,
friends, guides, my elders and anglers like yourselves.
Happy Hookin;
Randy Jones John Halnon Photography
September through
April
The Salmon River is located in
Pulaski NY on Lake Ontario's eastern shore, 30 miles north of Syracuse.
Its reputation for large runs of Salmon - Steelhead and incredible average
size of all species is unsurpassed by any other fishery in New England.
September 1 - October 31 - Tackle
busting King Salmon averaging 10-20 lbs. will amaze you with
their freight train runs. Trying to harness the raw power of a 12 lb
Coho Salmon running in 20 different directions in a blink of an eye
will keep you on your toes (and hopefully not on your back!)
October 15 - November -
Brown Trout. Like Salmon and Steelhead you measure these Fish by the
pound and not by the inch.
They have entered the river to spawn and will weight from 3-10
pounds. While they are not as numerous as the Salmon or the Steelhead,
these are an optional trophy of a Fishing life time.
Thank you for several memorable
trips this year on the Salmon River NY. The highlight of the year was
definitely the outing on the Salmon River during September
with my son for salmon. Never have I experienced such numbers of large
and aggressive Salmon in all my 45 years of fishing. I estimate we had over
60 hook-ups on King Salmon and caught and released 12, two of which were
between 30 and 35 pounds. Close behind was the spring drift boat trip for
Steelhead on the remote stretch of Pucker-brush Creek. Seeing over 2 dozen
Steelhead off the drift boat in a one mile stretch, with no one else around,
reminded me of Alaska. After those experiences, I decided traveling to
the Northwest Territories for lake trout and grayling or to Labrador for
brook trout are a thing of the past and I will concentrate on the quality
of fishing available in New York State. If you ever need a recommendation,
I would be pleased to provide one.
Dick Koelling
Note: If you don't recognize "Pucker-Brush
Creek", that is one of my secret creeks where Steelhead abound in a beautiful
, pristine environment without many or even any other anglers.
At 16 feet, this 285 pound guide drift boat is comfortable and a very stable platform . It is outfitted with a propane heater to keep you nice and toasty on even the coldest days. While you can Spin or Fly fish from the drift boat, I will often stop to let clients wade and fish a particularly productive run on the Salmon River NY.
When the Steelhead or Salmon are concentrated in particular locations wading is the preferred option. At other times a drift boat is the only way to get to the fish. While I will give booking anglers a recommendation, you may want to experience one method over another. All you have to do is ask.
(Photo courtesy of Orvis)Reservation is confirmed upon receipt of a $100 deposit (per day) within 7 days of booking.
Mailed to:
Randy Jones
87 Clark Rd.
Mexico, NY
13114
E-mail : RandyJones@YankeeAngler.com
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Amazing Fishing on the Salmon River in Pulaski NY w/ Steelhead Drift Boat
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