One of the most famous salmon runs in the world goes through Pulaski, N.Y. More than 1 million salmon annually run the 13-mile Pulaski River, which empties into Lake Ontario.
Growing up nearby in the small town of Fulton meant salmon fishing is in full swing in the fall. The many Boca Grande residents who have caught salmon in northern home states confirm how exciting a run can be for anglers of all ages.
The annual run in Pulaski is set against a backdrop of beautiful fall colors on hardwood trees that sometimes draw attention away from fishing for a moment. Salmon fishermen from all over United States come every year to catch a nice big salmon or two.
Article Photos
Salmon in flight on the Pulaski River.
Fishing from the river and going on Lake Ontario trolling for salmon meant using two totally different techniques to fish the salmon.
Anglers wading on the river literally fish elbow to elbow and must pull their lines in when someone nearby hooks into a 10- to 20-pound salmon. An angler who hooks up yells notice while trying to reel the fish in and weaving around other anglers at the same time.
Whether a coho, a chinook (king salmon) or a sockeye, snagging a salmon requires skill and luck. Other fish caught during the salmon run include steelheads, rainbow trout, brown trout and other large fish in search of a salmon egg feast.
Anglers love the strength and power of salmon. You can wade most areas of the river. Float boats or drift boats are also available to fish from the deeper areas of the river or Lake Ontario.
Fishing guides can be chartered to help experience salmon fishing from a boat. The Yankee Fly and Tackle Shop in downtown Pulaski is a great shop and has all the information you might need. Owner Dawn Rucando also offers room right on the river for anglers to stay close to the action. Yankee Fly Shop guests also can access a private section of the river.
All anglers should experience salmon fishing at least once in their lifetime. Add it to your bucket lists.
