Salmon River Fishing Report 2026 Pulaski NY | Salmon Steelhead
Salmon River Fishing Report
By Randy Jones, The Yankee Angler — Publisher of Salmon River Steelhead & Salmon Fishing Reports
Enjoy my year-round Salmon River fishing reports covering the fall, winter, and spring seasons in Pulaski, NY.
Whether you prefer float fishing, spin fishing, or fly fishing, you will find current Salmon and Steelhead river conditions, expert tips, and instructional videos right here.
I hope you find my reports both entertainingly informative and mildly educational.
They are built on 35 years of fishing experience and more than 2,000 drift boat trips right here on the Salmon River in Pulaski, NY.
Steelhead Fishing Salmon River NY.
Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River in Pulaski, NY kicks off every October and delivers incredible action all winter long.
The Steelhead fishing continues straight through February, March, and April, making spring another prime time.
Fall 2026 Salmon River Fishing Report | Pulaski, NY
Last Updated:
King Salmon run updates, Current Salmon River conditions, Expert fishing tips, from 35-year Pro Guide Randy Jones.
* * * For the latest NEWS on STEELHEAD RUNS! Click here to subscribe to my Time-Sensitive Email Alert Fishing Reports.
Welcome back to the SLAMMIN Salmon River in Pulaski, NY for your latest fishing report!
MAJOR RUN! of 1,000’s of Salmon on October 5. – With many anglers saying, they haven’t seen a run like this in years!
It’s TIME to GET YOUR FISH ON! – THESE ARE THE SALAD DAYS! – Ye-haa!
The Bottom Line: GET UP HERE – NOW!
With Excellent fishing opportunities, provided by very good numbers of Salmon, top to bottom of the river.
DAILY REPORTS: From October 1 through October 8, we had amazing steady numbers of fresh Salmon entering the river.
Causing the Salmon fishing to be GOOD, VERY GOOD, TO MOSTLY EXCELLENT – LOADED!
The Salmons spawning clock is ticking. Which IS FORCING them to enter and run the Salmon River NOW.
CURRENTLY: We have mostly King and Coho Salmon in the river. With a few Brown Trout and Steelhead starting to make their presence felt.
1. We still have some Salmon staging at the mouth of the Salmon River and also the estuary.
2. With some in transition, running the rapids – Daily.
3. Some holding in their mid-day resting spots – Daily.
4. With MOST in the Pools.
5. And some Salmon starting to spawn.
As a BONUS, this peak spawning action naturally draws in hungry, hard-fighting Steelhead and lake-run Brown Trout.
With Salmon dropping TONS of eggs in the River. It will become an “All You Can Eat Smorgasbord” for your Fall Steelhead and Brown Trout.
No matter your fishing preference, 99% of us use something egg related. Either real eggs or egg imitations.
For the next 3 weeks, you will have fish from one side of the river to the other (within reason).
The Salmon will be utilizing 100% of the river and its current breaks.
Just walk to the rivers edge. Close you eyes and cast. Good chance you will hook a fish.
It’s time for YOU to try for a RARE Fishing GRAND SLAM!
1. For you to achieve a GRAND SLAM = All by yourself in a single day. You land a Brown Trout, Steelhead, Coho Salmon and King Salmon.
Not easy to do, but FUN to try!
Sorry, your WORLD RECORD TROPHY Suckers don’t count. – har har.
Note: – If you are fishing with a friend or friends and you all land one of the above. It’s called a “Combined GRAND SLAM” for 2nd place.
2. For a SUPER GRAND SLAM – Include the above fish and add an Atlantic Salmon.
Local Salmon River Humor: Why, Is Your Fish Dirty?
During the peak of the salmon run, one local fly shop in Altmar puts out about forty different signs explicitly stating they DO NOT clean fish!
Yet, without fail, nearly every single day a clueless angler will trudge through the front door holding a dead salmon, completely oblivious to the signs, and ask the lady behind the counter if they clean fish.
The owner always looks them dead in the eye and asks, “Why, is your fish dirty?”
Fishing for a Salmon River World Record Monster 30lb. Brown Trout?
At one point during the fishing day Bill said, Hey Randy, come here quick. I see a BIG Salmon River Monster Brown Trout.
I walked over and peered into the crystal clear water and looked at what Bill was excitedly pointing at. Look at the size of that one! Bill yelled!
I said, Hmmmm, Bill I don’t see it.
Right there, right off the tip of my rod, don’t you see it? It’s a Monster 30lb. Brown Trout, could be a NEW WORLD RECORD!
As Bill was pointing at it with his rod. I noticed his hands were trembling with excitement. At the possibility of bragging rights to his fishing buddies for years to come. If he was able to catch it?
I said, O, now I see it, yes, that is one of the largest Brown Trout I have ever seen! Could be a NEW Fishing WORLD RECORD! That would be a real nice wall hanger! Bragging rights for years. Boy, wont your fishing buddies be jealous!
Both Chris and I started to snicker. Because what Bill was pointing at was a very dead, severely decaying and Brown in color King Salmon. Just laying happily dead on the bottom of the pool.
We both egged him on and suggested he make a cast for that MONST’A Brown Trout. But shortly there after we explained to him what he was really seeing.
His face turned a little red and we all laughed.
Of course we were laughing with him and not at him. How long you been fishing this river Bill? Had your eye’s checked lately Bill?
Countless people have been guided by me and most (excluding Bill) have gone on to live normal lives.
Be careful out there or YOU could be this Salmon River guides next “Fish Tale”.
SHOT GUN KING SALMON FISHING TIP
If you hear what sounds like loud gun blasts downriver, don’t panic! Those are fly and spin rods exploding when breaking on massive King Salmon.
It is a surefire indicator that a fresh run is heading up the Salmon River straight to your spot!
Todays TIP: When you hear rods exploding down river.
1. Its Time to check you still have a hook tied on.
2. And make sure your ferrules are tight on your rod, so you don’t EXPLODE YOUR ROD on the run of Salmon headed up-river to your spot next.
Randy, what’s the Very-Very Best way to keep my rod from EXPLODING! When I’m fighting and doing battle with a BIG Salmon or Steelhead?
I’m glad you asked, Just hand me your rod and I’ll land it for you. – har har.
((Great, after my sarcastic joke….. now I feel obligated to write the below for you.))
TOP 3 WAY’S to avoid exploding your rod on any BIG Salmon or Steelhead, from 35 years of Experience.
#1 Rule – Most common – Rods will easily explode on you when you put your hand ABOVE the cork (hand grip) for extra leverage on the rod blank when fighting a fish.
*** Rods are meant to be flexed fully. So by placing your hand above the cork (hand grip) it isn’t and it will EXPLODE!
Sure, on lil trout you measure by the inch, it’s never broken. But, how about a 30 pound King Salmon. Even a 10 pound Salmon River Steelhead will cause your rod to break – explode if it’s mishandled by you.
Don’t blame the manufacture, its your fault!
These fish are equal opportunity rod breakers. And don’t care how much or how lil you spent on your rod.
2. Check your ferrules thru out the day. (A ferrule is where the pieces of your rod join together). No matter the price you pay for your rod, they do come loose thru out the day. By checking them every few hour’s you should be ok.
If your ferrules are loose. And your rod is doubled over on a BIG Salmon or Steelhead, it will BREAK EVERY TIME.
3. Remember when your rod fell off the roof of your car? Or, got a nick in it from a split shot or lead eyes on your streamer?
Even if you do all of the above, that nick is your weakest link. I will guarantee you, that is where it will break when your fighting a fish.
In Closing,
When you drop your grandmas finest china on the floor, it breaks. Her china was not made to be dropped on the floor. Your fishing rod is no different.
If you remember that your fishing rod is similar to your grandma’s finest china. And follow rules #1 and #2, you’ll be ok. (Many anglers bring 2 rods when fishing up here).
“Kids” Salmon River Fishing Test.
Ok, you adults can play too. Smarter than a kid? Don’t feel tooooooo… bad if your not, I got them ALL wrong.
1. What do we call a 1 year old Salmon?
2. What do we call a 1 year old Steelhead?
3. What do you call a fishing guide who gives you a test, when ALL you reeeelly wanted was a fishing report? – * No foul language, Please!
Answer’s:
1. Jack.
2. Skipper.
3. Salmon River Guide Randy Jones with over 35 years guiding experience.
FALL STEELHEAD AND BROWN TROUT FISHING
* October: The Steelhead season officially begins as daily runs of fresh fish enter and run the Salmon River.
These silver bullets enter the system to gorge on Salmon and Brown Trout eggs.
Trophy Steelhead Fishing (Acrobatic Runs)
Our Steelhead are one of the hardest fighting and most acrobatic fish that swims in the Salmon River in Pulaski NY.
Torpedo – Silver Bullet runs and changing direction in a blink of an eye. While taking your line 100 to 200 feet out in seconds.
This well surely jump start your fishing heart! Tarpon jumps, like a rocket ship 3-4 feet in the air.
Somersaulting like a jugglers baton back to earths atmosphere before splash down.
Sounding like a cinder block with water spraying 20 feet in all directions.
Witnessing Steelhead Tail Walks across the pool for 40 to 60 feet! Will live in your fishing memory forever!
* Average Weight: 8 to 10 lbs. – * Prime Window: November through April
* Late October & November: Delivers prime opportunities to target both Steelhead & trophy-sized Brown Trout.
Salmon River Brown Trout
You can catch Brown Trout anytime while fishing for Steelhead. While they are not as numerous as Salmon or Steelhead.
They are an optional Trophy of a Salmon River Fishing life time!
* Average Size: 3 to 5 lbs. * Peak Season: Oct. through Nov. – This is when they spawn and it’s when we have the largest concentrations. You always target Steelhead, and hope for a Brown.
* Winter Steelhead Fishing
Guiding from a heated drift boat makes winter on the water an exceptional experience. It offers lower crowds and a better population of both resident and fresh Steelhead.
* Pro Guide Insider Tip: Keep a close eye on the water gauges. Whenever the Salmon River water level increases, fresh Steelhead immediately react to the increased flow.
They use the high water to run upriver ahead of their spring spawn, opening up a guaranteed window of opportunity.
For the latest NEWS on STEELHEAD RUNS! Click here to subscribe to my Time-Sensitive Email Alert Fishing Reports.
Salmon River Pulaski NY Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the first good run of STEELHEAD happen this year on the Salmon River?
A: Here are the Four main triggers:
1. If we get a higher water release from the dam.
2. A significant amount of rain runoff pouring into the river.
3. The fish’s biological spawning clock can force them up the river.
* 4. From Mid. October thru November we always get our first seasonal push of Steelhead, caused by all the Salmon and Brown Trout eggs in the river.
Q: When is the best time for a Salmon River Steelhead drift boat trip?
A: Late fall through the spring brings acrobatic Steelhead and the best time for a drift boat trip is November through April.
Q: When is the absolute best time to go Steelhead fishing in Pulaski, NY?
A: Mid-week is always the best time during the Salmon River season. Avoid fishing on a holiday weekend if you can possibly help it.
Q: Where can I check to see when they will raise the Salmon River water level from its current 185 cfs to the normal 335 cfs?
A: You can monitor the live updates here: Brookfield Renewable Lighthouse Hill Facility. Also, this link gives you real time water levels from the Pineville Water Gauge.
Q: When we get enough rain for them to raise the water level to its normal flow of 335 cfs, could that cause a good run?
A: Sure! From here on out, any increase of water flow levels will cause fish to react to it and run the river. Causing a small run or even a good run.
Q: What normally causes the biggest Steelhead runs of the season?
A: It happens when their biological spawning clock forces them to run into the next stage of their life cycle.
Q: Where is the VERY VERY BEST place to fish?
A: The VERY VERY BEST place to fish, is anywhere I’m not fishing. har har.
Did you know?
They just came out with a new report about 1 MAJOR side effect of eating Steelhead.
Genital shrinkage! – Unfortunately, I’ve experienced it!
What causes a Good Run of Steelhead on the Salmon River?
35-year Pro Salmon River Guide Randy Jones—who has led more than 2,000 drift boat trips breaks down the exact environmental and biological secrets behind a GOOD STEELHEAD RUN to help YOU catch MORE fish!
FAQ: What Causes a “Good Run”?
* After 35+ years of guiding, I’ve found that good runs of steelhead occur when three primary factors align:
– High Water Flows: Increased dam releases, heavy rain run-off, or snowmelt give fish the depth and comfort level they need to run the river.
– Extended Low Light: Heavy overcast skies and stormy weather provide the cover they need to travel upriver in large numbers.
– Strong West Winds: This pushes Lake Ontario water directly into the estuary, deepening the entry point and causing the fish to feel safer to run.
Seasonal Triggers to Watch For:
– Steelhead (Year-Round): Any sudden spike in dam water releases immediately pulls fresh Steelhead out of Lake Ontario and into the river.
Or springtime spawning biological clocks, which forces runs up the river to prepare to spawn.
DID YOU KNOW?
Teach a man how to fish and you can get rid of him for the entire weekend.
I spend most of my $ on Wild women, Booze and Gambling. The rest is wasted.
If you lie about the size of your fish, I’ll swear to it!
***PLEASE REMEBER.
Daily Catch Limits. – No more than one Steelhead with a minimum size of 25 inches and no more than one Brown Trout per person per day.
===
Its Time to get Your FISH ON!
I hope you found my fishing report, Entertainingly Informative or Mildly Educational.
IT’S BEEN A SINCERE PLEASURE!
Sharing my 35 yrs. of Steelhead EXP. with you.
Best Fish’s, Randy Jones of Yankeeangler.com from the Salmon River Drift Boat.
Meet Randy Jones: Salmon River Guide, Author, & Publisher
REAL ANGLER SUCCESS STORIES: Client Fishing Testimonials
WORK IN PROGRESS 10/9, PLEASE EXCUSE THE MESS.
I’m in a rush to get the above fishing report out to you, asap.
##########################################################################################################
??? with one ultimate goal: to help you catch more fish.
H2——-Learn to Steelhead fish like a PRO. on the Salmon River in Pulaski, NY.
Join the TOP 10% of Salmon River anglers who catch 90% of the Steelhead in Pulaski, NY!
Overall, fishing has been slow for some, but much better for anglers with experience.
They are finding success by focusing on these main strategies (with 1 TOP SECRET rarely published specialized technique)
H2 ——–Click to Unlock These Guide-Level Salmon River Secrets!
Want to catch more Salmon and Steelhead to join the TOP 10% of anglers who catch 90% of the fish?
Use these complementary Fishing Strategies from Professional Fishing Guide Randy Jones—with 35+ years of experience and over 2,000 successful drift boat trips—where he reveals exactly how to target and locate the MOST fish for your trip.
Learn the insider secrets for Steelhead, Brown Trout, Chinook King Salmon, and Coho Salmon.
MAKE H3? OR 2 ——–Maximize your success by exploiting these TOP 4 structural Salmon River habitat current breaks, used daily by the Salmon & Steelhead.
============EDIT – FIX
Prepare for the Steelhead RUNS with these Masterclasses from Pulaski, NY.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below each video.
* The Strategy: Discover exactly where in the water column you should be fishing, along with the two prime Salmon River habitats you need to focus on based on current water temperatures.
* Video Lesson 1: Steelhead Habitat & Water Column Secrets
—
* The Strategy: Catch MORE Steelhead during the peak Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below each video.
* Video Lesson 2: Salmon River Steelhead Fishing: Best Times & Seasons Guide
==================FIX TITLES AND INTRO.
H2 ——–Click to Unlock These Guide-Level Salmon River Secrets!
Want to catch more Salmon and Steelhead to join the TOP 10% of anglers who catch 90% of the fish?
Use these complementary Fishing Strategies from Professional Fishing Guide Randy Jones—with 35+ years of experience and over 2,000 successful drift boat trips—where he reveals exactly how to target and locate the MOST fish for your trip.
Learn the insider secrets for Steelhead, Brown Trout, Chinook King Salmon, and Coho Salmon.
MAKE H3? OR 2 ——–Maximize your success by exploiting these TOP 4 structural Salmon River habitat current breaks, used daily by the Salmon & Steelhead.
H3 – 1. Fast-Water Rapids (Low-Light)
Target actively running salmon or steelhead during both low-light periods (early morning and dusk). Where fish rest briefly on current breaks while running upriver.
* The Strategy: Fish directly behind larger rocks or boulders that feature a slow-water pocket. Also look for depressions or deeper water in these rapids; these pockets act like magnets that hold fish.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below the video.
* Video Lesson: Part 1 – Temporary Transitional Resting Spots Explained
H3—2. Master Mid-Day Current Breaks Between (9:30 AM – 5:30 PM)
When bright overhead sunlight hits the water it forces fish to stop their upriver migration.
* The Strategy: Target deep-water pockets inside rapids or slow-moving runs deeper than 3 feet.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below the video.
* Video Lesson: Part 2 – Mastering Mid-Day Holding Locations
After this mid. day break, they will then continue running the river, until they have found a Prime Lye – (Pools). That provide them with everything they need, to satisfy their survival instincts.
3. Long-Term Deep Pool Current Breaks
Where the highest concentration of fish stack up for days, weeks, or months.
* The Strategy: Target their numerous Prime Holding Current Breaks.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below the video.
* Video Lesson: Part 3 – Prime Long-Term Holding Pool Strategies
4. To catch Fish consistently in a Pool, target their Top 3 Holding Locations.
* The Strategy: Fish the head, gut, and tail of major holes.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below the video.
* Video Lesson: Part 4 – Anatomy of a Fishing Hole: 3 Major Core Current Breaks in every Pool
Starting in early October, you will see a mass exodus of Salmon leaving the pools as their biological clocks force them onto the gravel to reproduce.
1. Fast-Water Rapids (Low-Light)
Target actively running salmon or steelhead during both low-light periods (early morning and dusk). Where fish rest briefly on current breaks while running upriver.
* The Strategy: Fish directly behind larger rocks or boulders that feature a slow-water pocket. Also look for depressions or deeper water in these rapids; these pockets act like magnets that hold fish.
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below the video.
* Video Lesson: Part 1 – T
====fix – edit – see home – u-tube – discription. –
Money Back Guarantee! Complementary Top Secret (Ssssh!) Guide Tips on ADVANCED Fish Locations
By combining these advanced tactics, you will consistently place yourself in front of the highest concentration of active fish for the longest period of time.
H3 –5. Click to Unlock These Expert Steelhead Guide-Level Secrets!
Learn the insider secrets for Steelhead and Brown Trout and join the TOP 10% of anglers who catch 90% of the fish.
* The Strategy:
Maximize your skills by reading my expert secrets and tips in the descriptive text below the video.
* Video: MY Best TOP SECRET Salmon River Steelhead & Salmon Guide Spots (Pt 5) | Pulaski NY
H3——-6. Top Secret: “Leap-Frogging” the Steelhead Pushes
This technique is used when we have a good push or run of Steelhead.
You can leap-frog the highest concentrations of fish as they traveled upriver, day by day.
The Science: Steelhead run 1 to 3 miles per day.
How Leap-Frogging Works:
* Day 1: The lowest 3 miles of river had just received good numbers of Steelhead.
* Day 2: The Steelhead will then move through Town and into the Ball Park area.
* Day 3: The push will migrate up to the 2A area.
* Day 4: Fish between 2A and the Sportsman’s Pool to intercept that run.
* Day 5: From Sportsman’s Pool up to Pineville.
* Day 6: Trestle Hole area.
* Day 7: Altmar and into the fly fishing sections.
This daily migration of fish will continue throughout the entire season. If you pick up or go on-line for a Salmon River NY fishing map, these areas will all be on it.
So it might be worth making a note on days and locations, incase you want to Leap-Frog a good push, run or BIG RUN when your up here. To help you Catch MORE Fish!
* Humor: Watch my Long Bridge Bungee Jump into the Salmon River video for today’s joke!
If you enjoyed my fishing report, would you like me to email you the next one?
For the latest NEWS on STEELHEAD RUNS! Click here to subscribe to my Time-Sensitive Email Alert Fishing Reports.
SEASONAL STEELHEAD & SALMON ARCHIVED BLOG REPORTS & ADVANCED FISHING TIPS:
Catch MORE Fall, Winter, and Spring Fish with 35-year Professional Guide Randy Jones—who has led more than 2,000 drift boat trips.
* August 6 (Exploding Freight Train Runs): King & Coho Salmon Tactics
* October 16 (Early Fall Pushes): Fall Steelhead Runs
* October 21 (Peak Run Tactics): Steelhead Guide Tips
* October 25 (Late Autumn Setup): Salmon River Steelhead
* December 5 (Early Winter Pools): Winter Steelhead Guide
* January 6 (Deep Winter River Zones): Winter Best Time Strategies
* January 19 (February Mid-Winter Run): Pulaski NY Fishing Report
* February 14 (Spring Spawning Runs): Steelhead Tactics and Drop back action
The Steelhead and Salmon fishing of your dreams.. ..well mak’m reeeeeel!
JOIN ME FOR A GUIDED SALMON RIVER DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP IN PULASKI, NY:
Enjoy learning Advanced fishing techniques and Exact fish habitats.
To Book Your Trip: Booking Form with Additional Information
* Rates: $350 for 1 angler | $450 for 2 anglers (All premium gear, tackle, and equipment included)
* Phone: (315) 963-2065
* Email: [email protected]
* Address: Yankee Angler | Randy Jones 11 North Street, Unit 15, Mexico, NY 13114
FUN Salmon River STUFF!
1. CHECK OUT! – All the MONSTER FISH that await you!
2. I’m the first person to EVER Bungee Jump off the Long Bridge over the Salmon River in Pulaski NY.
3. Check out my Office on the River.
LOADED with Steelhead!
TOP SECRET (edited) FISHING REPORT.
I went 10 for 15 on Steelhead @ (edited for content) in the afternoon. All were caught using (edited for content).
This morning I fished the (edited for content) and was 15 for 20 on Steelhead using (edited for content).
The last spot I fished was LOADED with Steelhead @ (edited for content). – har har.
Quick Links & Resources:
– Drift Boat Trips ➡️ https://www.yankeeangler.com/salmon-river-drift-boat/
– Salmon and Steelhead Details ➡️ https://www.yankeeangler.com/salmon-river-steelhead-salmon-fishing/
– Follow me on Facebook ➡️ https://www.facebook.com/people/Guide-Salmon-River-Pulaski-NY-Drift-Boat-Steelhead-Fishing-Report/100083349211995/
– All my Videos in 1 place, that I made just for YOU! ➡️ https://www.yankeeangler.com/salmon-river-fishing-videos/
Stay tuned for more entertainingly informative and mildly educational reports and articles. On this never-ending fishing trip with your host Randy Jones “The Yankee Angler”.
I sincerely hope that what little I’ve been able to share with you. Will help you along the path to more enjoyable and knowledgeable fishing.
Thanks for stopping in and spending your valuable internet fishing time here! Hope your all enjoying the fishing!
Best Fish’s, Randy
Steelhead Fishing on the Salmon River in Pulaski, NY!
Our Steelhead are some of the hardest-fighting fish swimming in the Salmon River. Imagine silver-bullet torpedo runs, changing direction in the blink of an eye, and screaming out 100 to 200 feet of line in a matter of seconds! It is guaranteed to jump-start your heart.
These fish pull off acrobatic, rocket-ship jumps three to four feet in the air—somersaulting like a juggler’s baton before splashing back down to earth like a falling cinder block, spraying water 20 feet in all directions!
Watching Steelhead “tail-walk” across a pool for 40 to 60 feet will live in your memories forever.
What is the forecast for the upcoming Salmon River Steelhead season?
In short, all signs point to a great year on the water.
We saw good numbers of Steelhead in Lake Ontario this summer, which is a fantastic sign for the river run.
Even better, the DEC’s 25-inch minimum size limit (one fish per person, per day) is going to keep two additional year classes of Steelhead right here in the Salmon River for you to catch!
Last spring, the Altmar Fish Hatchery easily met its egg quota due to an overabundance of returning Steelhead.
Following a strong season last November through April, all signs point to another excellent year.
My forecast? It is going to be another good Steelhead season.
Salmon River Steelhead Fishing: Seasons & Timing in Pulaski, NY
When is the best time to fish for Steelhead on the Salmon River? The truth is, there isn’t just one “best” time.
Because we have healthy runs of Steelhead throughout the Fall, Winter, and Spring, the ideal time to book your trip comes down to your personal preference.
As a general rule for any season: Mid-week trips are always best to avoid the crowds, provided they don’t fall on or around a holiday.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect on the river from October through April:
Late October: High Opportunity, Low Crowds
I begin guiding for Steelhead at the end of October. At this time of year, most river anglers are still focused on Salmon.
This means fewer people targeting Steelhead and a good opportunity for you to hook into fresh fish with plenty of water to yourself.
November: Peak Action & Hard-Fighting Fish
November brings a massive influx of Steelhead into the river. Because the temperatures are still comfortable, this is the busiest month of the year for Steelhead anglers.
The action is incredible—this is when Steelhead are at their strongest, delivering speeding-bullet runs, tail walks, and acrobatic somersaults.
December: Holiday Solitude
In December, the number of Steelhead in the river continues to grow, but angler numbers drop significantly as people focus on holiday and family commitments.
If you don’t mind the cooler weather, the trade-off is excellent: fewer anglers on the water and more opportunities for you.
January & February: Magical Winter Fishing
The middle of winter can be absolutely magical. Only the most dedicated anglers braving the cold are out on the water.
If you want peace, quiet, and pristine river conditions with plenty of fish holding in the pools, the winter months are tough to beat.
March & April: The Spring Drop-Back Run
Spring brings higher water levels from the seasonal runoff, which pulls the remaining wave of pre-spawn Steelhead into the system.
After they spawn, their appetites are on fire as they slowly drop back down the Salmon River toward Lake Ontario, making for good action and occasional opportunities for sight-fishing.
I hope you enjoyed my Salmon River fishing report! Sharing my 46 years Total of guiding experience and detailed river knowledge with you is always a pleasure.
Ready to get your fish on? Join me aboard my drift boat in Pulaski, NY. We target salmon and steelhead through the fall, winter, and spring seasons. During our trip, you will learn advanced fishing techniques and exact fish habitats to help you succeed on this river for years to come. I always enjoy sharing my wealth of knowledge with my guests—especially if you are planning to fish the river on your own in the future.
Author Biography | Meet Randy Jones: Salmon River Guide, Author, & Publisher
Established in 1980, Yankee Angler is a premier guiding service and marketing agency managed by veteran angler Randy Jones. With 46 years of professional fishing experience, Randy has specialized in elite salmon and steelhead excursions across the Salmon River in Pulaski, NY, for the last 35 years—including over 2,000 drift boat trips.
As the owner, author, and publisher of YankeeAngler.com, he provides highly sought-after river reports, tactical guides, and local fishery updates. Beyond the water, Randy leverages his decades of industry expertise into a specialized marketing practice. He designs cutting-edge SEO and social media strategies that fuel his own vastly successful guide business while dedicatedly supporting and growing the local economy.
Contact Information:
Yankee Angler | Randy Jones 11 North Street, Unit 15, Mexico, NY 13114
📞 (315) 963-2065 | 🌐 YankeeAngler.com
Email: [email protected]
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SALMON RIVER DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP IN PULASKI NY.
Spring Steelhead Fishing Salmon River Pulaski NY.
Your Spring Salmon River Steelhead fishing RUNS are happening NOW in Pulaski NY. With fresh Spring Steelhead fishing runs up the Salmon River in Pulaski NY.
During the Spring in March and April. Its one of the Best Times for Salmon River Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. Things are looking Good for your Spring Steelhead fishing trip.
Currently on the Salmon River we have 5% fresh Spring Steelhead fishing in Pulaski NY. 1% spawning Steelhead fishing in Pulaski NY. 1% drop back Steelhead fishing.
And 93% older Fall and Winter Steelhead. The % of fresh Spring Steelhead, spawning Steelhead and Spring drop back Steelhead will increase from here on out.
These Spring Salmon River Steelhead fishing Runs will last thru March in Pulaski NY. With April being “Prime” Drop Back Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River in Pulaski NY.
Add in ALL the steelhead that have been entering the Salmon River NY since Sept. And it’s going to be a good fishing Spring!
Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River NY is Superb. You will have Steelhead fishing from the Lower Salmon River to the Upper Salmon River NY.
Along with some Brown Trout.
Catch more Steelhead when your fishing Pulaski NY. When your Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. It’s a Great time to use anything egg related.
February, March and April Steelhead fishing Salmon River Pulaski NY.
February, March and April are great Spring Salmon River Steelhead Fishing days in Pulaski NY. With fresh Spring Salmon River steelhead fishing runs in Pulaski NY.
Their biological clock is telling them its time to re-produce. Causing fresh Spring steelhead to enter, run and spread out over the entire Salmon River in Pulaski NY.
Most of the Older and Spring Steelhead will remain in the Salmon River fishing Pools thru February and March in Pulaski NY.
As the Spring Salmon River water temperatures rises, so does the aggressiveness of the Steelhead.
All Salmon River NY Spring Steelhead fishing methods will work. Whether your Steelhead float fishing, spin fishing, fly fishing or spey fishing in Pulaski NY.
Spring Steelhead fishing, as the Entire Salmon River in Pulaski NY comes Alive.
With Salmon River Spring Pre-Spawn Steelhead, Spawning Steelhead and Drop Back Steelhead fishing in Pulaski NY.
For Spring Drop Back Steelhead. April is the Best Time for fishing on the Salmon River Pulaski NY.
Your Best Salmon River Pulaski NY Steelhead fishing is all Spring thru the end of April. In early May, fish the lower Salmon River for your best Spring Steelhead fishing in Pulaski NY.
Spring Steelhead Fishing you Success! Salmon River Pulaski NY Guide Randy Jones of Yankeeangler.com from the Salmon River Drift Boat.
Winter Steelhead Fishing Pulaski NY Report.
Winter is one of the Best Times for Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. With only a few Winter steelhead anglers fishing Pulaski NY. It opens up additional Winter Steelhead fishing opportunities. With Ton’s of options on where to Steelhead fish.
Winter Steelhead fishing remains good in Pulaski NY. With fresh Winter Steelhead fishing runs on the Salmon River NY.
Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. TIP. 95% of your Winter steelhead are in the fishing pools in Pulaski NY. With 5% of the Winter Steelhead running the River. We have Winter Steelhead fishing from the Lower Salmon River to the Upper Salmon River NY.
The drift boat – wade fishing for steelhead continues to remain excellent for some, ok for others and slow for some-others. We will continue to see more fresh Steelhead enter, run, spread out and hold in the Salmon River as the season progress’s. With our past higher water flow levels we have received some more fresh Steelhead!
Today’s Humor: You Lie about the size of your fish and I’ll swear to it!
Wouldn’t it be great if we could put ourselves in the dryer for 10 minutes and come out wrinkle free and 2 sizes smaller.
Another Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY.TIP. If there is no Slush from Mid. River down, I’d highly recommend fishing it! Very few anglers have been fishing these areas. Leaving you presently with a lot of uneducated and easier to catch steelhead. Also, most anglers have been pounding the upper river. Causing the steelhead to become extremely educated and more difficult to fool.
For an Expert Analysis on Winter Slush, which makes fishing impossible for the Salmon River and local creeks and streams.
Please see – https://www.yankeeangler.com/winter-steelhead-fishing-pulaski-ny/ – Salmon River Slush – Planning your Steelhead fishing day around it.
This could save you a wasted trip to the middle or lower Salmon River or our local creeks and streams.
Give your favorite fishing buddy or guide a ring. The steelhead (8 to 12 lb. average) are here and just waiting for you.
It’s Time to Get yer FISH ON!
Sharing my 35 years total of guiding Experience with you has been a pleasure!
Best Steelhead Fish’s, Salmon River Guide Randy Jones of Yankeeangler.com from Pulaski NY.
Winter Steelhead Fishing Salmon River Pulaski NY Report.
Your Winter Salmon River Steelhead fishing season is looking good in Pulaski NY. Producing Winter Steelhead fishing in Pulaski from the Lower Salmon River to the Upper Salmon River NY. With fresh fishing runs of Winter Salmon River Steelhead. As everyday pass’s, more Winter steelhead will enter and run the River in Pulaski NY.
Currently 90% of your Winter steelhead are in all the Salmon River fishing pools. Offering You Opportunity with a presence of Steelhead. Things are looking great for your Winter Steelhead fishing trip on the Salmon River in Pulaski NY.
As Usual – Winter Steelhead fishing has been slow to ok. With a some Salmon River Winter Steelhead fishing anglers doing Great in Pulaski NY.
Salmon River Pulaski NY Winter Steelhead fishing. TIP. Cover your Steelhead water thoroughly in a good Winter fishing spot, and then move to the next. Repeat this all day. It works for me daily on the Salmon River NY.
Never know, that next BIG pod of Winter Steelhead might just be around the next bend of the Salmon River in Pulaski NY where fishing memories are made.
A nice Push of fresh dime bright silver missile Winter Steelhead entered and ran the Salmon River during our last high water period. These newly arrived fresh Winter Steelhead fought like a November Steelhead. With speeding bullet runs, numerous somersaults, tail walks across the pool and traveling 10 feet thru the air before splash down. AMAZING! While the older Steelhead gave us the normal sluggish cold water temp. fight.
If your Winter Steelhead fishing anytime soon. You will have older steelhead that have been entering the Salmon River since Sept. But also some fresh Winter Steelhead that will be easier to catch! Ye-Haa!
Winter Salmon River Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY.TIP. (Besides the D.S.R). The easiest to catch and less educated Winter Steelhead are in the Middle of the Salmon River. Very lil fishing pressure put on those Winter Steelhead. (Except for the Sportsman Pool, which see’s daily Winter Steelhead fishing pressure in Pulaski NY).
Today’s Salmon River Humor: My guest’s laughingly suggested that instead of calling the Best Spot in the hole “The Hole within the Hole”. To call it the G Spot.
Today we reached maximum pleasure by fishing some of the finest, most enjoyable and exciting G spots on the Salmon River. The only trouble us guys had was finding it.
Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY.
Now is a Great Time for Winter steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. With only a few Winter steelhead anglers fishing the Salmon River. It offers you Ton’s of Winter Steelhead fishing options in Pulaski NY. With some Winter Steelhead fishing spots Wide Open!
Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. TIPS. I’ve been fishing Winter Steelhead beads, egg sacks and flies in Pulaski NY. All dead drifted to match the “Bottom” Salmon River current speed. So it will look natural to the Winter steelhead with perfect fishing presentations.
My Winter Steelhead rigging directly relates to the “education level” of our Steelhead. When your Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. Use Expensive 100% Fluorocarbon leader – tippet. You will increase your odds greatly.
All of my Winter Steelhead have come from different “Exact as fitting a key into a Lock” Spots. Which can change by the day.
Using Daily Salmon River water flow levels to decipher what CRITICALLY IMPORTANT Current Breaks. The Winter steelhead would be 100% using for each fishing day in Pulaski NY.
Our Salmon River water levels are always changing. And the Winter Steelhead change along with it, and so should you for best fishing results. Having a clear understanding of this will put you into the 10% of the Salmon River anglers that catch 90% of the Winter Steelhead.
Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. TIP. The Winter Pools are Steelhead fishing the best in Pulaski NY.
BONUS Fishing Videos. Fishing Winter Steelhead Pools in Pulaski NY.
3 Prime Current Breaks in every pool to help YOU catch more Winter Steelhead in Pulaski NY.
Where do Winter Steelhead hold for Extended periods on the Salmon River in Pulaski NY?
Winter Steelhead want Deep water for safety from predators. A food source. And less current to conserve their energy over a long Winter.
(You can find our Pulaski NY Steelhead fishing mapped named pools, parking and access roads. By doing a search on the internet or most of our Pulaski NY Shops have them).
Winter Steelhead fishing Salmon River NY.
I’m finding ok #’s of Winter Steelhead while fishing on the Salmon River NY. The Salmon River is not loaded with Winter Steelhead. 100% Winter Steelhead fishing Guarantee that EVERY Salmon River NY Pool has Steelhead.
90% of these Winter Steelhead are in the deeper fishing holes on the Salmon River NY. CURRENTLY we have 10% of the Winter Steelhead in Transition, running the Salmon River NY. While stopping to rest mid. day between approx. 9:30am until 5:30pm. Then continuing up the Salmon River until they have found a Winter Pool that satisfies it’s survival instincts. These NEW Winter Steelhead are now Top to Bottom of the Salmon River NY.
Winter Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River NY. Tip. These middle of the day resting area’s are often over looked by Winter Steelhead anglers fishing the Salmon River NY. And should always be fished during and right after a high water period when Steelhead are running the Salmon River. – Find out where the Winter Steelhead hold in the Middle of the day on the Salmon River NY.
Off the Salmon River NY Drift Boat, some Winter Steelhead fishing spot’s we are having to work for them. Making each Winter steelhead all the more rewarding. While other Salmon River NY Winter steelhead fishing spot’s. It’s almost been to easy. Obviously, this wouldn’t be a truthful fishing report, if I didn’t add that some Winter Steelhead spots left us wanting…….
Salmon River NY Winter Steelhead fishing. TIP. Due to higher Salmon River water levels bringing in fresh fishing Winter Steelhead. Currently, now is one of the BEST TIMES to fish for Salmon River NY Winter Steelhead.
Winter Steelhead fishing will only have the most die hard Salmon River Steelhead anglers out. Causing very light Winter Steelhead fishing pressure with easier to catch Steelhead. During these colder Mo’s. = Less anglers and drift boats = more opportunity for you.
Advantages of Winter Steelhead fishing after a High Water Period on the Salmon River NY. – Past higher water levels on the Salmon River have kept many Winter steelhead anglers away. Once the Salmon River water level drops, it will provide you with unpressured Winter steelhead that are easier to fool and catch!
BONUS Winter Steelhead fishing Opportunity’s Abound! – With the past Rain, above freezing temps. and Snow Run-off, causing higher water flows. Optional Local Creeks and Streams are with fresh runs of Winter Steelhead.
The BONUS presently, is you don’t have to trudge thru 5 feet of snow to fish for Winter Steelhead. You also don’t have to break off large junks of sheet ice covering the holes, so you can fish for Winter Steelhead. Or, worry about falling thru any shelf ice you might be standing on while Winter Steelhead fishing.
Steelhead Fishing Salmon River NY Report.
Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River NY is Superb! We have Steelhead fishing from the Lower Salmon River to the Upper Salmon River NY. With all the Salmon and Brown Trout eggs in the Salmon River, it continues to bring in fresh fishing Steelhead into the Salmon River in Pulaski NY. As everyday pass’s, we are seeing more steelhead trout enter and run the Salmon River. Offering You Opportunity with a presence of Steelhead. Ye-Haa!
Steelhead fishing will remain good into the Spring on the Salmon River NY thru April. In March and April the Spring Steelhead fishing on the River is Good. For Spring Drop Back Steelhead, April is the Best Time for fishing on the Salmon River NY.
Things are looking Superb, for your upcoming Steelhead fishing trip on the Salmon River NY.
For MORE – Steelhead Fishing on the Salmon River NY.
Fall Salmon River Steelhead Fishing Pulaski NY Report.
Your Fall Salmon River Steelhead fishing season is looking good in Pulaski NY! We have decent Fall Salmon River Steelhead fishing numbers around in Pulaski NY. For the last few weeks, Fall Steelhead have been entering the Salmon River to eat ALL the Salmon eggs. With decent fishing numbers of Steelhead entering the Salmon River in Pulaski NY this Fall. You might come up now, before the Nov. Steelhead fishing crowds arrive. These current numbers of Fall Steelhead will increase in Nov.
Many Salmon River Steelhead fishing spots are WIDE OPEN! While other larger Steelhead fishing spots in Pulaski NY only have 1-2 anglers fishing for Steelhead. The Steelhead fishing in Pulaski NY has been BEST in the Lower Salmon River with some filtering into the Upper Salmon River.
Winter Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY. In December, we will have even MORE Winter Steelhead in Pulaski NY. The Bonus of Winter Steelhead fishing is you will see less Salmon River angler’s fishing due to colder temp’s. Offering you greater Winter Steelhead fishing opportunities in Pulaski NY.
These are the Best Times for Salmon River Steelhead fishing Pulaski NY all Fall and Winter. Spring Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River NY is another Best Time in Mar. and April. April is the Best Time for Drop Back Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River NY in the Spring. April Sight fishing Steelhead in the Spring is an optional Salmon River treat.
Things are looking Great, for your upcoming Salmon River Steelhead fishing trip in Pulaski NY.
For MORE – Fall Salmon River Steelhead Fishing Pulaski NY.
Fall Steelhead Fishing Pulaski NY Report.
Fall Steelhead fishing in Pulaski NY is One of the Best Times for Steelhead. Your Fall Steelhead fishing is starting right on schedule. The Best place to go Steelhead fishing now is in the Lower River in Pulaski NY. Nice Push of Fall Steelhead just entered the River in Pulaski NY for your fishing pleasure. With many more Fall Steelhead to come! Things are looking Good for your Fall Steelhead fishing trip in Pulaski NY.
Salmon River Steelhead Fishing Report Pulaski NY.
I’m happy to report – Fresh Steelhead continue to enter and run the Salmon River daily. 80% Older and 20% fresher Steelhead Top to Bottom of the Salmon River. Always a chance for a Trophy Brown Trout. The Pools are fishing best!
Today’s Salmon River Fishing Report Tip. – Noticing 1/2 to 3/4 less drift boats and Steelhead anglers fishing mid-week. Offering you greater Salmon River Steelhead fishing opportunities. Plenty of prime Steelhead spots open to fish that are holding your Chrome!
As Usual – Steelhead fishing has been sloow, so-so, ok to good. With a few anglers hitting it just right with AMAZING results! The Best Salmon River Steelhead fishing has happened when you find a pod of’m.
Another Salmon River fishing report Tip. – Suggest covering your water thoroughly in the better spots and then move to the next. That’s what this Salmon River guide has been doing with success.
Never know, that next BIG pod of Steelhead might just be around the next bend of the Salmon River, where memories are made.
Thumbs up from this Salmon River fishing report guide with a Very Happy Steelhead Guest.
The Steelhead and Salmon fishing of your dreams…… ………… we’ll mak’m reeeeeeeeeeeeeel
The Salmon River, where Memories are Made!
INFORMATION| The Yankee Angler
Randy Jones is a Full-Time Professional Drift Boat Spin - Fly fishing Guide with over 35 years of Experience.
Contact Info
Rates, Reserv. & Deposits:
Salmon River Guide Rates for 1 person $350. Rates for 2 people $450. Included in Guide Rates – All Salmon River fishing equipment.
Your reservation is confirmed upon receipt of a $150 check deposit (per day) within 7 days of booking to hold your date.
Check Payable and Mailed to: Randy Jones 11 North Street, Unit 15, Mexico, NY 13114.